JP2010522903A - Multifocal lens with progressive optical power region and discontinuity - Google Patents

Abstract

A multifocal lens having a progressive optical power region and a discontinuous portion is provided.
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a multifocal lens having a generally spherical power region and a progressive optical power region. Embodiments of the present invention provide the proper alignment and placement of each of these regions, the amount of optical power provided by each of the regions, the optical design of the progressive optical power region, and the size and shape of each of the regions. . The combination of these design parameters provides an optical design that has less unwanted astigmatism and distortion, as well as both wider channel width and shorter channel length, compared to conventional PALs. Embodiments of the present invention may also provide a novel inventive far-medium distance zone, which may provide improved visual stability within the lens zone.

Description

Cross Reference to Related Application This application is a part of US serial number 11 / 964,030 filed December 25, 2007 entitled "Multifocal Lens with Progressive Optical Power Region and Discontinuity". Part continuation applications, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

  This application claims priority from the following provisional applications and incorporates them by reference in their entirety.

US serial number 60 / 906,211 filed March 29, 2007 entitled "Composite Advanced Progressive Additional Lens with Discontinuities"
US serial number 60 / 924,975, filed June 7, 2007, entitled "Elaborate Annular & Spherical Curve Associated with Low Additional Power Curve to Give Progressive Lens Area"
US serial number 60 / 935,226, filed August 1, 2007, entitled “Composite optical components for near and intermediate vision correction”;
US Serial No. 60 / 935,492, filed August 16, 2007, entitled “Diamond Turning of Tools to Generate Enhanced Multifocal Eyeglass Lenses”,
US serial number 60 / 935,573, filed August 17, 2007, entitled "Advanced Lens with Continuous Optical Power"
US serial number 60 / 956,813, filed August 20, 2007 entitled "Advanced Multifocal Lens with Continuous Optical Power", and September 5, 2007 entitled "Sophisticated Enhanced Multifocus" Submitted US serial number 60 / 970,024.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention The present invention relates to multifocal ophthalmic lenses, lens designs, lens systems, and eyewear products or devices utilized on, in or near the eye. More specifically, the present invention is a multifocal ophthalmic lens that reduces the unwanted distortion, unwanted astigmatism and vision compromise most often associated with progressive addition lenses to the very tolerance of the wearer, It relates to lens design, lens systems and eyewear products.

Description of Related Art Presbyopia is a loss of lens accommodation in the human eye that often accompanies aging. This loss of adjustment first leads to the inability to focus on close-range objects and then the inability to focus on medium-range objects. A standard tool for correcting presbyopia is a multifocal ophthalmic lens. A multifocal lens is a lens that has more than one focal length (ie, optical power) to correct a focusing problem over a range of distances. Multifocal ophthalmic lenses work by dividing the lens area into regions of different optical power. In general, a relatively large area located in the upper portion of the lens, if any, corrects long distance vision impairment. A narrow area located at the bottom of the lens provides additional optical power to correct near vision impairment caused by presbyopia. A multifocal lens may also include an area located near the center of the lens, which provides additional optical power to correct medium distance vision impairment. Multifocal lenses can be composed of continuous or discontinuous surfaces that produce continuous or discontinuous optical power.

  The transition between regions of different optical power is either steep and discontinuous, as in bifocal and trifocal lenses, or smooth and continuous as in progressive addition lenses. possible. A progressive addition lens is a type of multifocal lens with a positive refractive optical power gradient that continuously increases from the far zone of the lens to the near zone of the lower portion of the lens. This progression of optical power generally begins at or near what is known as the lens fitting cross or fitting point and continues until all the additional power is achieved in the lens's near-field zone. Conventional and modern progressive addition lenses utilize the surface topography of one or both outer surfaces of the lens shaped to create this progression of optical power. Progressive addition lenses are known as PALs when there are a plurality of progressive addition lenses and as PAL when there is a singular number. PALs are advantageous over conventional bifocal and trifocal lenses. It can provide the user with a multifocal lens that has good visibility with no lines with continuous vision correction, and the user's focus moves from a distant object to a close object or vice versa. This is because the perceived image may be disturbed at the time.

  Although PAL is now widely accepted and doing as a corrector for presbyopia throughout the United States and throughout the world, they also have serious vision compromises. These compromises include, but are not limited to, unwanted astigmatism, distortion, and swim. These vision compromises can affect the user's horizontal viewing width, which is the width of the field of view that can be clearly seen when the user looks left and right while focusing on a given distance. Thus, when focusing on medium distances, PALs can have a narrow horizontal field of view, which can make it difficult to see a large portion of the computer screen. Similarly, when focusing on short distances, PALs can have a narrow horizontal field of view, which can make it difficult to view an entire book or newspaper page. Far vision can be affected as well. PALs can also make it difficult for the wearer to play sports due to lens distortion. In addition to these limitations, many wearers of PALs experience an unpleasant effect known as visual movement (often referred to as “swimming”) because of the distortion present in each of the lenses. In fact, many people refuse to wear such lenses because of discomfort from this result.

  When considering the near-field optical power requirement of a presbyopic individual, the amount of near-field optical power required is the amount of cooperative amplitude (short-range focusing ability) that the individual left in his or her eye Inversely proportional to In general, the amount of cooperative amplitude decreases as an individual ages. The cooperative amplitude can also be reduced for a variety of health reasons. Thus, as the person becomes older and becomes more presbyopic, the optical power required to correct the ability to focus on near and medium distances becomes more necessary refractive optical power. Near and medium range optical power is usually described in terms of “additional power” or “additional optical power”. The additional power is the amount of optical power that goes beyond far vision correction. Additional power refers to the optical power that is normally applied to the far vision correction to achieve proper near vision correction. For example, if a person has an optical power correction of -1.00 D for a far field of view and a short distance additional power of +2.00 D, such an individual will have +1.00 D for a near field of view. Called to have optical power correction.

  By comparing the different near field additional power needs of two individuals, it is possible to directly compare each person's near focus needs. By way of example only, a 45-year-old individual may need +1.00 D additional power to be clearly visible at near-point distance, while an 80-year-old individual is clearly visible at the same near-point distance May require short-range additional power of + 2.75D to + 3.50D. Since the degree of PALs vision compromise increases with refractive power addition, individuals with more advanced presbyopia will experience greater vision compromise. In the above example, an individual who is 45 years old will have a lower level of distortion and a wide intermediate and narrow near vision zone associated with his or her lens than an individual who is 80 years old. As is readily apparent, this is the exact opposite of what is necessary for the quality of life issues given in relation to being elderly, such as weakness and loss of agility. Prescription multifocal lenses that add compromises to vision function and reduce safety are in sharp contrast to lenses that make life easier, safer and less complex.

  By way of example only, a conventional PAL with + 1.00D short range additional power may have undesired astigmatism of approximately 1.00D or less. However, a conventional PAL with + 2.50D near field additional power can have undesired astigmatism of approximately 2.75D or more, while a conventional PAL with + 3.25D near field additional power is Can have undesired astigmatism of 3.75D or greater. Thus, as the near-field additional power of the PAL increases (eg, + 2.50D PAL compared to + 1.00D PAL), the unwanted astigmatism found in the PAL increases more than a linear percentage.

  More recently, double-sided PALs have been developed that have progressive additional surface topography placed on each outer surface of the lens. In addition to providing the appropriate total additional short range additional power needed, the unwanted astigmatism created by the PAL on one surface of the lens is created by the PAL on the other surface of the lens. The two progressive addition surfaces are aligned and rotated with respect to each other so as to neutralize some of the unwanted astigmatism. This design reduces the unwanted astigmatism and distortion of a given short-range additional power compared to conventional PALs, but the undesired astigmatism, distortion and other visual compromises listed above. Levels still cause serious vision problems for some wearers.

  Other multifocal lenses have been developed that provide an arrangement of continuous and / or discontinuous optical elements in optical communication with each other. However, these lenses do not achieve optimal placement and alignment of continuous and / or discontinuous elements. These lenses also do not achieve optimal optical power distribution for optical elements placed in optical communication. Thus, these lenses generally have one or more perceptual image disturbances, prism image jumps, viewing problems, surface discontinuities, poor visual ergonomics, and / or too steep optical power gradients. These problems generally translate into eye fatigue, tired eyes and headaches for wearers of these lenses. These lenses also do not realize an upper mid-range zone, a far-mid range zone having a plateau of optical power, and / or a midzone having a plateau of optical power.

  Thus, when satisfying presbyopic individual vanity requests, while reducing distortion and cloudiness, widening the horizontal field of view, providing improved safety, playing sports, working on computers, reading books and newspapers There is a persistent desire to provide spectacle lenses and / or eyewear systems that provide improved visual capabilities.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In certain embodiments of the present invention, the ophthalmic lens may have a long distance zone. The ophthalmic lens may include a diffractive optical power region to provide a first incremental additional optical power. The ophthalmic lens may further include a discontinuity disposed between the far zone and the diffractive optical power region. The ophthalmic lens may further include a progressive optical power region to provide a second incremental additional power. At least a portion of the diffractive optical power region and the progressive optical power region are in optical communication such that the first incremental additional optical power and the second incremental additional optical power together provide a short range additional optical power for the user. .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the invention will be more fully understood and appreciated from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings. The drawings are not to scale. In the drawings, like reference numerals indicate corresponding, similar or similar elements.

FIG. 1A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 1B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 2A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 2B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 3A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 3B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 4A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 4B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 5A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 5B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 6A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 6B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 7A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 7B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 8A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 8B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 9A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 9B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 10A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 10B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 11A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 11B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 12A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 12B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 13A shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 13B shows different lenses with or without perceptual image disturbance. FIG. 14A shows a view of the front surface of a lens having two optical power regions and a mixing zone according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14B shows a view of the front surface of a lens having two optical power regions and a mixing zone according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14C shows a view of the rear surface of the lens of FIG. 14A or FIG. 14B having a progressive optical power region below the fitting point of the lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14D shows a view of the rear surface of the lens of FIG. 14A or FIG. 14B having a progressive optical power region at or near the fitting point of the lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14E shows a cross-sectional view of the lens of FIGS. 14A and 14C broken at the center vertical line of the lens according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 14F shows the lens of FIGS. 14A and 14C from the front showing the placement and optical alignment of the optical power regions on the front and back surfaces of the lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14G shows the lens of FIGS. 14B and 14C from the front showing the placement and optical alignment of the optical power regions on the front and back surfaces of the lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15A shows a view of the front surface of a lens having two optical power regions and a mixing zone according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15B shows a view of the rear surface of the lens of FIG. 15A having a progressive optical power region below the fitting point of the lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15C shows a lens having a surface that is a mathematical combination of the surface of FIG. 15A and the surface of FIG. 15B according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15D shows a pictorial illustration of how the surfaces of FIGS. 15A and 15B combine to form the surface of FIG. 15C according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is an Essilor Physio® lens, Essilor, trademarked by Essilor, each having a +1.25 D short range additional power, according to an embodiment of the present invention. By Rolex for Essilor Ellipse (R) lenses trademarked by and Shamir Piccolo (R) lenses trademarked by Shamir Optical Fig. 6 shows the additional power gradient measured by the trademarked Rotlex Class Plus (R). FIG. 17 is taken from the fitting point under the channel of additional power found in the three lenses of FIG. 16 as measured by a Rolex Class Plus® according to an embodiment of the present invention. The measured value is shown. FIG. 18 shows the fitting under the channel of additional power found in the embodiment of the present invention in which an approximately spherical power region having an optical power of +1.00 D is placed in optical communication with the lens of FIG. Indicates the measured value taken from the point. FIG. 19 shows the addition for both the left embodiment of the present invention and the right Essilor Physio® lens as measured by a Rolex Class Plus®. Indicates the power gradient. FIG. 20 is taken from the fitting point below the channel of additional power found in the two lenses of FIG. 19 as measured by a Rolex Class Plus® according to an embodiment of the present invention. The measured value is shown. FIG. 21 shows four regions of a lens according to an embodiment of the present invention: a far zone, an upper far middle zone, a middle zone and a near zone. FIG. 22 shows the optical power along the central vertical centerline of an embodiment of the present invention that includes a progressive optical power region connecting the far zone to the near zone. FIG. 23 illustrates the optical power along the central vertical centerline of an embodiment of the present invention that includes a progressive optical power region connecting the far zone to the near zone. FIG. 24 shows an optical along the central vertical centerline of an embodiment of the present invention that includes a generally spherical power region, a discontinuity, and a progressive optical power region connecting the far zone to the near zone. Indicates power. FIG. 25 shows an optical along the central vertical centerline of an embodiment of the present invention that includes a generally spherical power region, a discontinuity, and a progressive optical power region connecting the far zone to the near zone. Indicates power. FIG. 26 shows an optical along the central vertical centerline of an embodiment of the present invention that includes a generally spherical power region, a discontinuity, and a progressive optical power region connecting the far zone to the near zone. Indicates power. FIG. 27A shows an embodiment of the invention having a mixing zone with a substantially constant width located at or below the lens fitting point. FIG. 27B shows an embodiment of the invention having a mixing zone with a substantially constant width located at or below the lens fitting point. FIG. 27C shows an embodiment of the invention having a mixing zone with a substantially constant width located at or below the lens fitting point. FIG. 28A includes a lens fitting point or a portion with a width of substantially 0 mm located below it, thereby providing a transition of this portion similar to a lined bifocal. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the invention having a mixing zone. FIG. 28B includes a lens fitting point or a portion with a width of substantially 0 mm disposed below it (thus providing a transition of this portion similar to a lined bifocal). 3 illustrates an embodiment of the invention having a mixing zone. FIG. 28C includes a lens fitting point or a portion with a width of substantially 0 mm located below it, thereby providing a transition of this portion similar to a lined bifocal. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the invention having a mixing zone. FIG. 29A shows a method of manufacturing a synthetic lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29B shows a method of manufacturing a synthetic lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29C shows a method for manufacturing a synthetic lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29D shows a method of manufacturing a synthetic lens according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION A number of ophthalmological, optometric and optical terms are used in this application. For clarity, their definitions are listed below.

  Additional power: Additional power represents the additional positive optical power required for short-range and / or medium-range vision. Most commonly prescribed for presbyopia when the normal regulatory power of the eye is no longer sufficient to focus on short or medium distance objects. It is called “additional” power because it is added to the lens's long-range optical power. For example, if an individual has a -3.00D far field prescription and a + 2.00D additional power for near field, the actual optical power in the near part of the multifocal lens is the sum of the two powers, That is -1.00D. The additional power is sometimes referred to as positive optical power or additional optical power. The additional power may also be related to the additional power in the middle range of the lens and is referred to as “medium range additional power”. In general, medium range additional power is approximately 50% of short range additional power. Thus, in the above example, the individual will have + 1.00D additional power for the mid-range field of view, and the actual total optical power in the middle range of the multifocal lens will be -2.00D.

  Mixing zone: A zone where the optical power difference is shifted across at least a part of the optical power discontinuity of the lens. The discontinuous portion is disposed between the first optical power and the second optical power. The difference between the first and second optical powers can be caused, for example, by different surface topography or different refractive indices. The optical power continuously transitions from the first optical power to the second optical power across the mixing zone. When a diffractive optical element is used, the mixing zone can include mixing the light efficiency of the surrounding area of the diffractive optical element. The mixing zone is used for reasons of viewing enhancement. The mixing zone is generally not considered a usable part of the lens due to its poor optics. The mixing zone is also known as the transition zone.

  Channel: The area of a lens that is defined by increasing the positive optical power and is centered by the lens navel. It extends from the far zone to the near zone and is free of unwanted astigmatism greater than 1.00D. For progressive addition lenses, this optical power progression begins approximately in the area of the lens known as the fitting point and ends in the near zone. However, in embodiments of the invention having a progressive optical power region, the channel may begin between approximately 4 mm and approximately 10 mm below the fitting point. Channels are sometimes called corridors.

  Channel length: The channel length is the measured distance from the beginning of the specified channel where the optical power first increases to the position within the channel where the additional power is within approximately 85% of the lens' specified near field power. . In PAL, the channel typically begins at or near the fitting point.

  Channel width: The narrowest part of the channel bordered by unwanted astigmatism above approximately 1.00D. This definition is due to the fact that wider channel width is generally associated with less haze, less distortion, better visual function, increased visual comfort, and easier adaptation to the channel for the wearer. Useful when comparing lenses.

  Continuous optical power: Optical power that is either substantially constant or varies in a way that does not create perceptual image disturbances.

  Continuous surface: a refractive surface that does not cause perceptual image disturbance. The continuous surface can be outside or inside the lens. If inside, it will have a different refractive index than the material adjacent to it. An example of a continuous surface is the surface of a substantially spherical lens or a progressive addition lens.

  Contour Map: A plot generated from measuring and plotting lens optical power changes and / or unwanted astigmatic optical power. Contour plots can be generated with varying sensitivity of astigmatic optical power. Thus, it provides a visual picture of where and to what extent the lens possesses unwanted astigmatism as a result of its optical design. Such map analysis can be used to quantify the lens channel length, channel width, reading width and far-field width. The contour map may be referred to as an unwanted astigmatism power map, sphere power map, average power map, additional power map, or power error map. These maps can be used to measure and depict the optical power of various parts of the lens.

  Conventional channel length: Due to the aesthetic relationship or trend of eyewear fashion, it may be desirable for a frame style to have a vertically reduced lens to fit the frame. In such a lens, the channel is also naturally shortened in order to provide sufficient near vision. Conventional channel length refers to the length of the channel of the non-reducing lens. These channel lengths are not always normal, but are usually about 15 mm or more. In general, longer channel lengths mean wider channel widths and less unwanted astigmatism compared to shorter channel length PALs.

  Discontinuity: A discontinuity is a change in optical power or surface that leads to perceived image disturbance for the user. The discontinuity can be caused by a step increase or decrease in optical power between the two regions of the lens. For example, a 0.10D discontinuity refers to a 0.10D step increase or decrease between two regions of the lens.

  Discontinuous optical power: Optical power that changes in a way that creates perceptual image disturbances.

  Discontinuous surface: A surface that causes perceptual image disturbance. The discontinuous surface can be outside or inside the lens. If inside, it will have a different refractive index than the material adjacent to it. By way of example only, a discontinuous surface is a surface of a lined bifocal lens whose surface changes from a long distance zone to a short distance zone of the lens.

  Dynamic lens: A lens with optical power that can be changed by the application of electrical energy, mechanical energy or force. The optical power of the dynamic lens can be changed without additional grinding or polishing. The entire lens can have a changeable optical power, or only a portion, region or zone of the lens can have a changeable optical power. The optical power of such a lens can be dynamic or adjustable so that the optical power can be switched between two or more optical powers. One of the optical powers may be substantially free of optical power. Examples of dynamic lenses include electroactive lenses, electrical meniscus lenses, lenses having one or more mechanically movable parts, or lenses made from compliant films such as gas lenses or fluid lenses. can give. A dynamic lens may also be referred to as a dynamic optical component or a dynamic optical element. A dynamic lens may also be referred to as a transfer adaptive optics or lens.

  Far-Medium Zone: A part or area of a lens that contains optical power that allows the user to see clearly at far-medium distances. The far-medium distance zone can be located between the long-range and middle-range zones of the lens. In that case, it is called the “upper middle distance zone”. It can also be placed below the near zone of the lens. In that case, it is called the “lower far-mid distance zone”. The far-medium distance zone is also called a far-medium vision zone.

  Far-Medium Distance: The distance a person looks at when looking at the far edge of his desk, just as an example. This distance is usually, but not always, considered to be between approximately 29 inches and approximately 5 feet from the eye, and in some cases can be between approximately 29 inches and approximately 10 feet from the eye. The far-medium distance may also be referred to as the far-medium viewing distance or the far-medium distance point.

  Long Distance Reference Point: A reference point located approximately 4 to 8 mm above the fitting cross where the PAL long distance prescription or distance optical power can be easily measured.

  Long-range zone: A portion or area of a lens that contains optical power that allows the user to see clearly at a long distance. The long distance zone may also be referred to as the far vision zone.

  Far Width: Nearly 4 to 8 mm above the fitting point, providing a clear and mostly cloudless correction with optical power within 0.25D of the wearer's long distance optical power correction, within the lens's far field The narrowest horizontal width.

  Long Distance: The distance a person sees when looking beyond the edge of his desk, driving a car, looking at a distant mountain, watching a movie, by way of example only. This distance is usually but not always considered longer than approximately 5 feet from the eye, and in some cases may be longer than approximately 10 feet from the eye. “Long distance” should not be confused with infinity, which is more than 20 feet away from the eyes. At infinity, the eye adjustment system is completely relaxed. The optical power provided to a person's optical prescription that corrects for approximately 5 feet (or 10 feet) or more from the eye is generally significantly higher than the optical power required to correct for approximately 20 feet from the eye. Not different. Thus, as used herein, far distance refers to a distance of approximately 5 feet (or 10 feet) or more from the eye. Far distance can be referred to as a far field distance or a far point.

  Fitting Cross / Fitting Point: A reference point on the lens that represents the proximity of the wearer's pupil when the lens is mounted on the spectacle frame, placed on the wearer's face, and looking straight ahead through the lens . The fitting cross / fitting point is usually, but not always, located approximately 2 mm to approximately 5 mm vertically above the beginning of the channel. The fitting cloth may have a very small amount of positive optical power ranging from just above + 0.00D to approximately + 0.12D. In some cases, this point or cloth is generally inked on the lens surface to provide an easily visible reference point for measuring and / or reconfirming the fitting of the lens to the wearer's pupil. Yes. The marks are easily removed when dispensing the lens to the wearer.

  Hard or soft progressive addition region: A progressive addition zone with a fast or slow rate of optical power change or astigmatic power change is called a hard or soft progressive addition region, respectively. A lens that generally includes a fast rate of change can be referred to as a “hard progressive addition lens”. A lens that contains a generally slow rate of change can be referred to as a “soft progressive addition lens”. PALs can include both hard and soft zones depending on the selected corridor length, the additional power required, and the designer's mathematical tools.

  Hard progressive addition lens: A progressive addition lens with a less gradual transition and a steeper transition between long and short range correction. In hard PAL, the unwanted distortion can be below the fitting point and cannot be spread into the perimeter of the far field area of the lens. A hard PAL may also have a shorter channel length and narrower channel width in some cases. "Modified hard progressive addition lens" means more progressive optical power transitions, longer channels, wider channels, more unwanted astigmatism spreading into the lens perimeter, and less unwanted below the fitting point A PAL with a light modified hard PAL optical design that has one or more characteristics of a soft PAL, such as non-astigmatism.

  Horizontal stability of optical power: A region or zone of a lens that has a generally constant optical power across the horizontal width of the region or zone. Alternatively, the optical power change can be an average of approximately 0.05 D or less per millimeter across the horizontal width of the region or zone. As another alternative, the optical power change may be an average of approximately 0.10 D or less per millimeter across the horizontal width of the region or zone. As a final alternative, the optical power change may be an average of approximately 0.20 D or less per millimeter across the horizontal width of the region or zone. The region or zone can have a horizontal width of approximately 1 mm or more. As an alternative, the region or zone may have a horizontal width of approximately 1 mm to approximately 3 mm or more. As a final alternative, the region or zone may have a horizontal width of approximately 2 mm to approximately 6 mm or more. The region or zone may be the lens's far zone, upper far middle zone, middle zone, short zone, lower far middle zone or any other zone.

  Horizontal stability of vision: A region or zone of a lens is said to have horizontal stability of vision if the region or zone has a generally constant clear vision when the user looks left and right across the region or zone. The region or zone can have a horizontal width of approximately 1 mm or more. As an alternative, the region or zone may have a horizontal width of approximately 1 mm to approximately 3 mm or more. As a final alternative, the region or zone may have a horizontal width of approximately 2 mm to approximately 6 mm or more. The region or zone may be the lens's far zone, upper far middle zone, middle zone, short zone, lower far middle zone or any other zone.

  Image turbulence: Image turbulence is the perceptual disruption of an image when viewed through a lens. When image disturbance occurs, the image perceived through the lens is no longer seamless. Image disturbance can be a prism transition of the image across the image disturbance, a magnification change of the image across the image disturbance, an image disturbance or a sudden cloudiness of the surrounding image, or some combination of the three. One way to determine whether a lens has image disturbance is to place the lens at a fixed distance above a set of vertical, horizontal or grid lines. FIGS. 1A-10B show a -1.25D long range correction held 6 ″ from a laptop screen displaying either a vertical line or a grid taken at 19.5 ″ from the laptop screen. Fig. 4 shows different lenses with + 2.25D additional power. 1A and 1B show a lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2A and 2B show a lens according to another embodiment of the present invention. 3A and 3B show a lens according to another embodiment of the present invention. 4A and 4B show a lens according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figures 5A and 5B show a flat top poly lens. 6A and 6B show an easy top lens with a slab off prism. 7A and 7B show an easy top lens. 8A and 8B show a mixed bifocal lens. 9A and 9B show a flat top trifocal lens. 10A and 10B show a high-grade lens. FIGS. 11A and 11B show a -2.25D long-range correction held 6 ″ from a laptop screen displaying either a vertical line or a grid taken at 19.5 ″ from the laptop screen. Fig. 3 shows a Sola SmartSeg (R) lens registered by Sola Optical having + 2.00D additional power. FIGS. 12A-13B show a -1.25D long range correction held 6 ″ from a laptop screen displaying either a vertical line or a grid taken at 19.5 ″ from the laptop screen. Fig. 4 shows different lenses with + 2.25D additional power. Figures 12A and 12B show a Varilux Physio 360 (R) lens registered by Essilor. FIGS. 13A and 13B show a Sola Compact Ultra® lens trademarked by Carl Zeiss Vision. The lenses shown in FIGS. 1A-11B are lenses that produce perceptual image disturbances. The lenses shown in FIGS. 12A to 13B are lenses that do not produce perceptual image disturbance.

  Incremental additional power: Additional power that is less than the total additional power required for the user to see clearly at close range. Regions with incremental additional power typically have a maximum additional power that is less than the total additional power required for the user to be clearly visible at close range. Two or more regions, each having incremental additional power, can be placed in optical communication with each other. Since the regions are in optical communication with each other, the individual incremental additional power may be additional to create a total composite incremental additional power that is equal to the additional power required for the user to clearly see at close range. The incremental additional power of the region can be generated by refraction or diffraction, respectively, using refractive or diffractive optics. In some cases, the region may have less than the total additional power required for the user to see clearly at intermediate distances. In such a case, the region is said to have “incremental intermediate distance additional power”.

  Mid-range zone: A part or area of a lens that contains optical power that allows the user to see clearly at medium range. The mid-range zone may also be referred to as the intermediate vision zone.

  Medium distance: The distance a person looks at when reading a newspaper, working on a computer, washing dishes in a sink, or ironing clothes, by way of example only. This distance is usually, but not always, considered to be between approximately 16 inches and approximately 29 inches from the eye. The medium distance may be referred to as a medium viewing distance or a medium distance point. It should be noted that “medium distance” can also be referred to as “near distance” since “short distance” is between approximately 10 inches and approximately 16 inches from the eye. Alternatively, only a portion of “medium distance” approaching approximately 16 inches may be referred to as “near-medium distance”. “Distance distance” should not be confused with “medium distance”. The “far-medium distance” is not between approximately 29 inches and approximately 5 feet (or 10 feet) from the eye.

  Lens: Any device or part of a device that focuses or diverges light. The lens can be refractive or diffractive. The lens can be convex, concave or plano on one or both surfaces. The lens can be spherical, cylindrical, prismatic, or a combination thereof. The lens can be made of optical glass, plastic, thermoplastic resin, thermoset resin, glass and resin composite, or different optical grade resin or plastic composite. The lens may be referred to as an optical element, optical preform, optical wafer, finished lens blank, or optical component. It should be noted that within the optical industry, a device can be referred to as a lens even if it has zero optical power (known as plano or no optical power). The lens is usually oriented vertically when a person wears the lens. As a result, the far-field zone of the lens is at the top and the near-field portion is at the bottom. “Upper”, “Lower”, “Upper”, “Lower”, “Vertical”, “Horizontal”, “Upper”, “Lower”, “Left”, “Right”, “Top”, “ The term “bottom” may be used for this orientation.

  Lens blank: A device made of an optical material that can be shaped into a lens. A lens blank can be “finished” meaning that both of its outer surfaces have been shaped into a refractive outer surface. The finished lens blank has an optical power that can be zero or any optical power including plano optical power. The lens blank can be a “semi-finished” lens blank, meaning that the lens blank has been shaped to have only one finished refractive outer surface. The lens blank may be an “incomplete” lens blank, meaning that none of the outer surfaces of the lens blank are shaped into a refractive surface. The unfinished surface of an unfinished or semi-finished lens blank can be completed by a manufacturing process known as free forming, or by more traditional surface finishing and polishing. The finished lens blank is not shaped, edged or modified at its peripheral edges to fit the spectacle frame. For this definition, the finished lens blank is a lens. However, a lens blank is no longer referred to as a lens blank once it has been shaped or edged or modified to fit a spectacle frame.

  Lined Multifocal Lens: A multifocal lens that has two or more adjacent regions of different optical power with visible discontinuities that can be noticed by someone looking at the lens wearer. The discontinuity causes a perceptual image disturbance between two or more regions. An example of a lined multifocal lens is a lined (unmixed) bifocal or trifocal.

  Lineless multifocal lens: Does not have a discontinuity between two or more areas, such as in a progressive addition lens, or is invisible between two or more areas that cannot be noticed by someone looking at the lens wearer A multifocal lens having two or more adjacent regions of different optical power having discontinuities. The discontinuity causes a perceptual image disturbance between two or more regions. An example of a lineless multifocal lens having a discontinuity is mixed bifocal. Although PAL can be referred to as lineless multifocal, PAL has no discontinuities.

  Low additional power PAL: A progressive additional lens that has less than the required near additional power for the wearer to see clearly at near field distance (ie, it has incremental additional power).

  Low additional power progressive optical power region: A progressive optical power region having less than the near additional power necessary for the wearer to clearly see at near field distance (ie, it has incremental additional power).

  Multifocal lens: A lens that has more than one focal point or optical power. Such lenses can be static or dynamic. Examples of static multifocal lenses include bifocal lenses, trifocal lenses, or progressive addition lenses. A dynamic multifocal lens includes, by way of example only, an electroactive lens. Various optical powers can be created in the electroactive lens, depending on the type of electrode used, the voltage applied to the electrode, and the refractive index that is changed in the thin layer of liquid crystal. A dynamic multifocal lens is also a lens with compliant optical members, such as a gas lens and a fluid lens, merely as an example, a mechanically adjustable lens in which two or more moving parts adjust optical power, or Includes electrical meniscus lenses. Multifocal lenses can also be a combination of static and dynamic. For example, static contact lenses such as static spherical lenses, static single vision lenses, progressive addition lenses, flat top 28 bifocals, or flat top 7 × 28 trifocals, merely by way of example. Electroactive elements can then be used. In most, if not all, multifocal lenses are refractive lenses. In some cases, the multifocal lens may comprise a combination of diffractive optical elements and / or diffractive and refractive optical components.

  Near range zone: A part or area of a lens that contains optical power that allows the user to see clearly at close range. The short distance zone may also be referred to as the near vision zone.

  Short distance: The distance a person looks at when reading a book, threading a needle, or reading instructions on a pill bottle, by way of example only. This distance is usually but not always considered to be between approximately 10 inches and approximately 16 inches from the eye. The short distance can be referred to as a near field distance or a short distance point.

  Office Lens / Office PAL: A specially designed professional progressive addition lens that replaces the long-distance vision zone with that of the medium-distance vision zone, generally providing short-distance vision for the short-distance zone and generally medium-distance vision for the mid-range zone. The optical power falls from the short distance zone to the middle distance zone. The total optical power drop is a change in optical power that is less than the wearer's general short range additional power. As a result, a wider mid-range vision is provided by a wider channel width and also a wider reading width. This is accomplished by an optical design that generally allows larger values of unwanted astigmatism above the fitting cross. Because of these features, this type of PAL is suitable for desk work, but the lens contains little, if any, far field area, so a person can drive his or her car Can not be used to walk around the office or home.

  Ophthalmic lenses: lenses suitable for vision correction, including, by way of example only, spectacle lenses, contact lenses, intraocular lenses, corneal inlays and corneal onlays.

  Optical communication: A condition in which two or more optical power regions are aligned, light passes through the alignment region, and experiences a composite optical power equal to the sum of the optical power of each individual region at the point where the light passes. The region may be embedded in the lens or on the opposite surface of the same lens or a different lens.

  Optical power area: An area of a lens having optical power.

  Optical power plateau: A region or zone of a lens having a generally constant optical power across the horizontal width and / or vertical length of the region or zone. Alternatively, the optical power change may be an average of approximately 0.05 D or less per millimeter across the horizontal width and / or vertical length of the region or zone. As another alternative, the optical power change may be an average of approximately 0.10 D or less per millimeter across the horizontal and / or vertical length of the region or zone. As a final alternative, the optical power change may be an average of approximately 0.20 D or less per millimeter across the horizontal width and / or vertical length of the region or zone. The region or zone may have a horizontal width and / or a vertical length of approximately 1 mm or more. Alternatively, the region or zone may have a horizontal width and / or vertical length of approximately 1 mm to approximately 3 mm or more. As a final alternative, the region or zone may have a horizontal width and / or vertical length of approximately 2 mm to approximately 6 mm or more. The optical power plateau provides vertical stability and / or horizontal stability of the optical power within the region. The optical power plateau will be visually perceived by the wearer of the lens, by moving his or her chin up or down, or looking left and right. If the region has a plateau of optical power, the wearer will notice that an object at a given distance remains largely in focus throughout the region. The region or zone can be a far zone, an upper far middle zone, a middle zone, a near zone, a lower far middle zone or any other region of the lens.

  Progressive additional region: A continuous region of PAL that provides continuously increasing optical power between the far zone of PAL and the near zone of PAL. The additional power of the far zone at the beginning of the region is approximately +0.10 D or less. In some cases, the region may provide reduced optical power after reaching full additional power in the lens's near zone.

  Progressive additional surface: A continuous surface of PAL that provides continuously increasing optical power between the far zone of PAL and the near zone of PAL. The additional power in the far zone at the beginning of the surface is approximately +0.10 D or less. In some cases, the surface may provide reduced optical power after the total additional power has reached in the lens's near zone.

  Progressive optical power region: a region of a lens that generally has a first optical power in the upper part of the region and a second optical power in the lower part of the region, where there is a continuous change in optical power between them. . The progressive optical power region can be on the surface of the lens or can be embedded in the lens. The progressive optical power region may comprise one or more surface topographies known as “progressive optical power surfaces”. The progressive optical power surface can be on one surface of the lens or embedded in the lens. The progressive optical power region is said to “begin” or “begin” when the optical power is increased beyond the optical power of the adjacent vision zone. In general, this increase is a positive optical power of + 0.12D or more. The increase at the beginning of the progressive optical power region plus optical power can be caused by an almost continuous increase in positive optical power. Alternatively, the additional power at the beginning of the progressive optical power region can be caused by an optical power step that is either part of the progressive optical power region or part of a different optical power region. The optical power step can be caused by a discontinuity. The optical power in the progressive optical power region can decrease after reaching its maximum additional power. The progressive optical power region can begin at or near the fitting point as in a conventional progressive addition lens, or it can begin from below the fitting point as in embodiments of the present invention.

  Read Width: The narrowest horizontal width in the near field of the lens that provides clear, mostly distortion free correction with optical power within the 0.25D wearer's near field optical power correction.

  Short channel length: Due to aesthetic relationships or trends in eyewear fashion, it may be desirable to have a vertically reduced lens to fit within a frame style with a narrow vertical height. In such lenses, the channel is of course also shorter. A short channel length refers to the length of the channel in the reduction lens. These channel lengths are usually, but not always, between approximately 9 mm and approximately 13 mm. In general, a shorter channel length means a narrower channel width and more unwanted astigmatism. Shorter channel designs are sometimes associated with “hard” progressive addition lens designs because the transition between long and short range corrections is more difficult due to the steeper increase in optical power caused by shorter vertical channel lengths Are referred to as having certain characteristics.

  Soft progressive addition lens: A progressive addition lens with a greater gradual transition between long-range and short-range correction. This larger gradual transition causes an undesirable increase in astigmatism. In soft PAL, an undesirable increase in astigmatism can penetrate onto a virtual horizon located through a fitting point that extends across the lens. Soft PAL may also have longer channel lengths and wider channel widths. The “corrected soft progressive addition lens” has a steeper optical power transition, shorter channels, narrower channels, more unwanted astigmatism pushed into the field of view of the lens, and more misalignment below the fitting point. A soft PAL having a modified optical design that has one or more characteristics of a hard PAL, such as desired astigmatism.

  Static lens: A lens having optical power that cannot be changed by the application of electrical energy, mechanical energy or force. Examples of static lenses include spherical lenses, cylindrical lenses, progressive addition lenses, bifocal and trifocal. Static lenses can also be referred to as fixed lenses.

  Optical power step: The optical power difference between two optical zones or regions that can be optical power discontinuities. The optical power difference may be a step increase in optical power where the optical power increases between the upper and lower portions of the lens. The optical power difference can be a step reduction in optical power where the optical power decreases between the upper and lower portions of the lens. For example, if the upper part of the lens has an optical power of + 1.00D, an “step increase” of + 0.50D optical power is a step increase (or non-increase) of optical power having an optical power of + 1.50D. It will be the lower part of the lens immediately after the continuous part). The optical power in the lower region is said to be “created” by the optical power step.

  Undesirable astigmatism: in the lens that is not part of the patient's prescription vision correction, but rather is a byproduct of the lens's optical design due to the smooth gradient of optical power that joins the two optical power zones Undesirable astigmatism found in. Although the lens may have unwanted astigmatism that varies across different areas of the lens of varying refractive power, the term “undesired astigmatism” is generally the largest unwanted astigmatism found in the lens. Refers to astigmatism. Undesirable astigmatism can also be further characterized as undesired astigmatism located within a particular portion of the lens symmetrically with the lens as a whole. In such a case, a limited language is used to indicate that only unwanted astigmatism within a particular part of the lens is considered. Lens wearers view unwanted astigmatism as haze and / or distortion caused by the lens. As long as the unwanted astigmatism and distortion of the lens is less than or equal to approximately 1.00 D, lens users are known and accepted within the optical industry, most often not being aware of it.

  Optical power vertical stability: A region or zone of a lens that has a generally constant optical power across the vertical length of the region or zone. Alternatively, the optical power change can be an average of approximately 0.05 D or less per millimeter across the vertical length of the region or zone. As another alternative, the optical power change may be an average of approximately 0.10 D or less per millimeter across the vertical length of the region or zone. As a final alternative, the optical power change may be an average of approximately 0.20 D or less per millimeter across the vertical length of the region or zone. The region or zone may have a vertical length of approximately 1 mm or more. As an alternative, the region or zone may have a vertical length of approximately 1 mm to approximately 3 mm or more. As a final alternative, the region or zone may have a vertical length of approximately 2 mm to approximately 6 mm or more. The region or zone can be a far zone, an upper far middle zone, a middle zone, a near zone, a lower far middle zone or any other region of the lens.

  Vertical stability of visual acuity: A lens region or zone is said to have vertical stability of vision if the region or zone has a generally constant clear visual acuity when the user looks up and down across the region or zone. However, it should be noted that while the PAL has clear vision from the far zone to the near zone, the optical power between these zones is mixed. Thus, PAL has a visual stability mixing stability between long and short distance zones. Thus, PAL has a very limited vertical stability of optical power between the long and short zones. The region or zone may have a vertical length of approximately 1 mm or more. As an alternative, the region or zone may have a vertical length of approximately 1 mm to approximately 3 mm or more. As a final alternative, the region or zone may have a vertical length of approximately 2 mm to approximately 6 mm or more. The region or zone can be a far zone, an upper far middle zone, a middle zone, a near zone, a lower far middle zone or any other region of the lens.

  Embodiments of the present invention relate to optical designs, lenses and eyewear systems that can solve many, if not most, problems associated with PALs. Furthermore, embodiments may eliminate most vision compromises associated with PALs. Embodiments may provide a means to achieve appropriate long, medium and short range optical power for the wearer while providing generally continuous focusing capability for various distances. Embodiments may also provide a means to achieve upper far-medium distance and / or lower far-medium optical power appropriate for the wearer while providing mostly continuous focusing capability. Embodiments have much less unwanted astigmatism than PAL. Embodiments may provide full area presbyopia correction with additional power from + 1.00D to + 3.50D in either a + 0.12D step or a + 0.25D step. For additional power prescriptions below + 3.00D, embodiments generally maintain undesired astigmatism at most approximately maximally 1.00D or less. For certain high additional power prescriptions such as + 3.00D, + 3.25D, and + 3.50D, embodiments generally maintain undesired astigmatism at a maximum of approximately 1.50D.

  Embodiments of the present invention may provide for optically combining two separate optical elements into a single multifocal lens. The first optical element may have a generally spherical power region that provides a generally spherical optical power. Generally spherical optical power can be generated by refraction or diffraction by refractive or diffractive optics, respectively. The second optical element may have a progressive optical power region that provides progressive optical power. The second optical element that provides progressive optical power does not provide sufficient additional power for the user to clearly see at close range (ie, the second optical element has incremental additional power). The first optical element may provide a generally spherical optical power that provides optical power in addition to the optical power provided by the second optical element to allow the user to see clearly at close range (ie, the first optical element). One optical element has an incremental additional power that, when combined with the incremental additional power of the second optical element, totals the user's near field additional power). A multifocal lens has less unwanted astigmatism than a PAL with the same total additional power, since a portion of the total additional power is provided by the first optical element that provides a generally spherical optical power. obtain.

  In embodiments of the present invention, the first optical element may be an embedded diffractive optical component having a different refractive index than the lens surrounding material. In another embodiment, the first optical element may be an embedded diffractive optic having a refractive index that is different from the surrounding material of the lens. In another embodiment, the first optical element can be an embedded electroactive element. In another embodiment, the first optical element may be on one or both surfaces of the lens and may be provided, for example, by grinding, molding, surface casting, drawing or free forming the outer surface of the lens.

  In embodiments of the invention, the second optical element can be on one or both surfaces of the lens, for example provided by grinding, molding, surface casting, drawing or free forming the outer surface of the lens. . In another embodiment, the second optical element may be embedded in the lens and have a refractive index gradient that is different from the surrounding material of the lens. In general, but not always, if one of the optical elements is embedded in the lens, the other optical element is placed on one or both outer surfaces of the lens.

  In embodiments of the present invention, the first optical element that provides generally spherical optical power is in optical communication with at least a portion of the second optical element that provides progressive optical power. In another embodiment, the first optical element that provides generally spherical optical power and the second optical element that provides progressive optical power are mathematically combined into a single optical element that can be embedded on or within the outer refractive surface of the lens. Combined.

  Embodiments of the present invention provide proper alignment and positioning of a first optical element that provides generally spherical optical power and a second optical element that provides progressive optical power. Embodiments of the present invention also provide the amount of optical power provided by the generally spherical power region, the amount of optical power provided by the progressive optical power region, and the optical design of the progressive optical power region. Embodiments of the present invention also provide generally spherical power region size and shape and progressive optical power region size and shape. The combination of these design parameters is much less with both unwanted channel astigmatism and distortion, in addition to both wider channel width and shorter channel length, compared to the current commercially available PALs. Gives an excellent optical design.

  It should be noted that the figures and any features shown in the figures are not drawn to scale. FIG. 14A shows a view of the front surface of a lens according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 14B shows a front surface view of a different embodiment of the present invention. 14A-14B show that the front convex surface of the lens has two optical power regions. The first optical power region is the far zone 1410 in the upper portion of the lens. The second optical power region is a generally spherical power region 1420 in the lower portion of the lens that provides additional optical power. The additional optical power can be incremental additional power. In FIG. 14A, the generally spherical power region is in the form of an arcuate section of the lens. The arcuate section can be thought of as a circular region having a diameter much larger than the diameter of the lens. Since the circular area is too large for the lens, only the surrounding top arch fits within the lens. In FIG. 14B, the generally spherical power region is circular. The generally spherical power region is located below the fitting point 1430. Alternatively, the generally spherical power region can be located at or above the fitting point. The optical power discontinuity exists between the far zone and the generally spherical power region. At least a portion of the discontinuity can be mixed by a mixing zone 1440 disposed between the two optical power regions. The mixing zone can be approximately 2.0 mm width or less or approximately 0.5 mm width or less. FIG. 14C shows a view of the rear surface of the lens of either FIG. 14A or FIG. 14B according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14C shows that the rear concave surface of the lens has a progressive optical power region 1450 that provides additional optical power. The additional optical power can be incremental additional power. It should be noted that the posterior concave surface also has a toric curve that corrects the patient's astigmatic refractive disorder when a progressive optical power region is found in most but not all cases on the posterior concave surface of the lens. is there. The progressive optical power region begins below the lens fitting point. Alternatively, FIG. 14D shows a view of the rear surface of the lens of either FIG. 14A or FIG. 14B according to an embodiment of the present invention where the progressive optical power region begins at or near the lens fitting point. As in FIG. 14D, an optical power step 1470 is provided that is additive to the optical power provided at the beginning of the progressive optical power when the progressive optical power region begins at the top edge of the generally spherical power region. When the progressive optical power region starts from above a generally spherical power region (not shown), the upper end of the generally spherical power region causes a discontinuity across the channel of the progressive optical power region.

  FIG. 14E shows a cross-sectional view of the lens of FIGS. 14A and 14C broken along the central vertical line of the lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen in FIG. 14E, far-field optical power 1415 is provided in the far-field zone. The generally spherical power region and the progressive optical power region are in optical communication with each other such that the optical power provided by each region combines in the near zone 1460 to provide a total near field additional power 1465 for the user. Aligned. The progressive optical power region begins below the fitting point and ends at or above the bottom of the lens. FIG. 14F shows an inventive lens from the front showing the placement and optical alignment of the optical power regions of FIGS. 14A and 14C on the front and back surfaces of the lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14G shows an inventive lens from the front showing the optical power region arrangement and optical alignment of FIGS. 14B and 14C of the front and rear surfaces of the lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen in both FIGS. 14F and 14G, the progressive optical power region generally begins with a portion of the spherical power region and is spaced below the discontinuity.

  As described above, in some embodiments of the present invention, the generally spherical power region, the mixing zone, and the progressive optical power region can be mathematically combined and placed on a single surface of the lens. In an example of such an embodiment, the lens wearer requires + 2.25D for short range correction without requiring long range correction. FIG. 15A shows a generally spherical power region 1510 located at the bottom portion of the surface of the lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. The generally spherical power region can generate optical power by refraction. The lens has a mixing zone 1520 that transitions between the optical power in the far zone and the optical power in the generally spherical power region. By way of example only, in the lens of FIG. 15A, the generally spherical power region has an optical power of + 1.25D and the far zone has a plano optical power. Thus, a generally spherical power region can have incremental additional power. FIG. 15B shows a progressive optical power region 1530 disposed on the surface of the lens according to an embodiment of the invention. As indicated, this can be on the front convex surface, the rear concave surface, or both the front convex surface and the rear concave surface. By way of example only, in the lens of FIG. 15B, the progressive optical power region has an additional power of + 1.00D. Thus, the progressive optical power region may have incremental additional power. FIG. 15C shows a single surface of a lens that is a combination of the surface of the lens shown in FIG. 15A and the surface of the lens shown in FIG. 15B according to an embodiment of the present invention. By way of example only, in the lens of FIG. 15C, the short-distance zone optical power is a combination of + 1.25D of optical power provided by a generally spherical power region and + 1.00D of optical power provided by a progressive optical power region. It is + 2.25D. In FIG. 15C, it should be noted that the progressive optical power region begins with a portion of the generally spherical power region and is optically aligned to be spaced below the mixing zone.

  In some embodiments of the present invention, the two surfaces may be combined to mathematically add the two surface geometries together thereby creating a new single surface. This new single surface can then be manufactured from a mold that can be produced by free forming or by diamond turning. A mold can be used to produce a semi-finished lens blank that can be surface treated by any optical laboratory.

  By describing each of the two surfaces in terms of Cartesian coordinate geometric functions, the surface of FIG. 15A is mathematically combined with the surface described in FIG. 15B, resulting in the combination of the two surfaces in FIG. 15C. It can produce the indicated new surface.

The surface that defines or yields a generally spherical power region and a mixing zone can be divided into separate equal sections. Each section may be described as a local height or a local curve for a fixed surface or fixed curve, respectively. Such a surface can be described by the following equation:

Similarly, the surface defining or producing the progressive optical power region can be divided into separate equal sections that are the same size as the section. Each section may be described as a local height or a local curved surface, respectively, with respect to a fixed surface or fixed curvature. Such a surface can be described by the following equation:

If the sections of the two surfaces are the same size, it is easy to combine the sections from each surface. A composite surface can then be described by a simple superposition of the two surfaces. Ie

  This process is illustrated in FIG. 15D according to an embodiment of the invention.

  The section size should be as small as possible to achieve an accurate representation of each surface. Further optimization of the progressive optical power region can be performed after the two surfaces are combined, or the progressive optical power region can be pre-optimized for a better combination with a generally spherical power region and a mixing zone. If desired, the mixing zones cannot be combined, generally only the spherical power region and the progressive optical power region are combined.

  The two surfaces can also be combined by the methods described in US Pat. No. 6,883,916 to Menezes and US Pat. No. 6,955,433 to Wooley et al. Both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

  The inventor has discovered the importance of distance ranges that have never been corrected in the same way in the eye field. The range of distances is between approximately 29 inches and approximately 5 feet, and has been found to be particularly important for tasks such as focusing on the far edge of one desk. In the prior art, this range of distances was mostly overlooked, and in the prior art definition, it was grouped with either a long or medium distance category. Therefore, this distance range was corrected as part of one of these categories. The inventor calls this range of distances as “far-center distance”. A new vision zone, named “Far-to-Medium Distance Zone”, was invented to provide the proper focusing ability for this invention. Embodiments of the present invention may include this far-medium distance zone, and the optical power of this zone may be optimized to provide proper focusing capability for far-medium distance. Embodiments of the present invention may include this far-medium distance zone and optimize the position of this zone in the lens to provide proper ergonomic use of the lens. When this zone is located between the long-range zone and the mid-range zone, it is termed the “upper mid-range zone”. When this zone is located below the short-range zone, it is termed the “lower far-medium zone”.

  In general, prior art multifocal lenses do not provide adequate focusing capability at far-medium distances, or provide limited focusing capability at far-medium distances. For example, a bifocal far-field region or zone is prescribed for an individual wearer to provide focusing capability at a far field distance, such as optical infinity of approximately 20 feet or more. However, it should be noted that in most cases, the same long-distance optical power is sufficient for the wearer when viewing a distance of approximately 5 feet or more. The bifocal near field region or zone is formulated to provide focusing capability with a near field distance of approximately 16 inches to approximately 10 inches. Trifocals provide adequate focusing capability at far, near and medium field distances (up to approximately 16 inches to approximately 29 inches). PAL provides a clear continuous field of view between the far and near field distances. However, since the optical power of the PAL continuously shifts from the long distance zone to the short distance zone, the vertical stability of this transition zone of the PAL is very limited.

  Unlike PAL, embodiments of the present invention may provide vertical stability of specific zones of the lens. The vertical stability of the zone can be provided by optical power steps that can cause discontinuities. Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention may provide a step location that is least plagued by the wearer's vision. Embodiments of the present invention may also provide for forming the steps so that the steps are not generally visible when a person sees the face of the lens wearer. Also, embodiments of the present invention form steps so that the wearer's eyes can move comfortably across steps when viewing from zone to zone, for example, when viewing from a long distance zone to a short distance zone. Can provide. Finally, in certain embodiments of the invention, the lens is a single lens that is comfortably transitioned when the wearer is in focus between a distant object and an object that is 4 to 5 feet or less from the wearer's eye. The discontinuity alone may provide a continuous constant focusing ability between approximately 4-5 feet from the wearer's eyes and approximately 10-12 inches. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the optical power step occurs between the far zone and the middle zone, so that the lens is located between the far object and an object that is approximately 29 inches or less from the wearer's eye. Continuous, continuous focusing between approximately 29 inches and approximately 10 inches to 12 inches from the wearer's eyes with only a single discontinuity that transitions comfortably when the wearer focuses between Give ability.

  In embodiments of the present invention, it may be necessary to align the generally spherical power region and the progressive optical power region to ensure that the corrected total optical power is provided to the far and medium distance zones. The far-medium distance zone generally has an additional power between approximately 20% and approximately 44% of the short-range additional power. The mid-range zone generally has an additional power between approximately 45% and approximately 55% of the short-range additional power. To create a usable and ergonomically feasible lens for when the wearer's line of sight transitions between different zones (far zone, far middle zone, middle zone and short zone) It may also be necessary to align and position these regions. Eventually, it may also be necessary to design the optical power gradient that exists between the long distance vision correction and the near distance vision correction to ensure optimal medium distance correction and / or long distance correction.

  In embodiments of the invention, the generally spherical power region may be located between approximately 0 mm and approximately 7 mm below the fitting point. In another embodiment of the invention, the generally spherical power region may be located between approximately 2 mm and approximately 5 mm below the fitting point. In an embodiment of the present invention, the progressive optical power region may begin from approximately 2 mm to approximately 10 mm below the top edge of a portion of the generally spherical power region. In another embodiment of the present invention, the progressive optical power region may begin from approximately 4 mm to approximately 8 mm below the top edge of a portion of the generally spherical power region. In an embodiment of the present invention, the mid-range power may begin between approximately 3 mm and approximately 4 mm below the fitting point and extend to approximately 4 mm below the channel. In an embodiment of the present invention, the medium range power may begin after the far mid range zone and extend from about 3 mm to about 4 mm below the channel. The above measurements are merely representative and are not intended to limit the invention.

  If the generally spherical power region and the progressive optical power region are not aligned and positioned, the lens user will not have proper vision correction in the usable part of the lens. For example, if the generally spherical power region is located very high above the fitting point, the wearer may have too strong optical power for the far field when looking straight ahead. As another example, if the low additional power progressive optical power region is placed too high in the lens, the combined optical power in the medium distance zone provided by the generally spherical power region and the progressive optical power region is Can be too expensive.

  FIGS. 16 and 17 show three conventional PAL designs (Essilor Physio, trademarked by Essilor) with a near-field additional power of + 1.25D according to embodiments of the present invention. Registered lens, Essilor Ellipse (R) lens registered by Essilor, Shamir Piccolo (R) registered by Shamir Optical Lens). FIG. 16 shows the additional power gradient for the three lenses measured by the Rotlex Class Plus®, registered by Rotlex. FIG. 17 shows measured values taken every 3 mm from the fitting point down the channel of additional power in the three lenses measured by the Rotorx Class Plus®.

  FIG. 18 shows measurements taken every 3 mm from the fitting point down the additional power channel of the three embodiments of the present invention. In these embodiments, the three lenses of FIGS. 16 and 17 are placed in optical communication with a generally spherical power region having an optical power of +1.00 D. In these embodiments, the progressive optical power region starts at the fitting point, and the top edge of the generally spherical power region is located just below the fitting point. As can be seen from FIG. 18, the additional power of the lens at 9 mm below the fitting point is too strong. The area of the lens 9 mm below the fitting point is generally part of the mid-range zone. For + 2.25D short range additional power, the medium range additional power should be + 1.12D. However, the Essilor Physio® embodiment has + 1.63D additional power at 9 mm below the fitting point, and the Essilor Ellipse® embodiment has a fitting point With a + 1.82D additional power at 9mm below, the Shamir Piccolo® embodiment has a + 1.68D additional power at 9mm below the fitting point. Because there is too much additional power in the mid-range zone, the lens user can feel as if his or her eyes are drawing or crossing. This can cause headaches. The user must also hold an object near his or her eyes to properly focus through this zone. Thus, if the optical power, placement and alignment of the spherical and progressive optical power regions are not optimized, the resulting lens will be: poor visual ergonomics, poor visual comfort and poor visual clarity Will have one or more of

  As another example, FIG. 19 shows an embodiment of the present invention on the left and an Essilor Physio® lens on the right, as measured by a Rolex Class Plus®. And both show additional power gradients. Both the embodiment and the Physio® lens have an additional power of + 2.25D. Embodiments have a generally spherical power region with an optical power of + 1.25D and a progressive optical power region with an additional power of + 1.00D. The top of the progressive optical power region starts just below the fitting point, and the top of the mostly spherical power region is located 4 mm below the fitting point. Thus, there is a region of the lens where only the progressive optical power region provides increased optical power before the generally spherical power region begins to apply optical power to the lens. FIG. 20 shows the measured values taken every 3 mm from the fitting point down the channel of additional power in the two lenses of FIG. 19 as measured by the Rotorx Class Plus®. Show. This embodiment of the present invention provides an additional power of +1.60 D at 9 mm from the fitting point compared to Essilor Physio®, which has an additional power of +1.10 D at 9 mm from the fitting point. Have As before, if the optical power, placement and alignment of the mostly spherical and progressive optical power regions are not optimized, the resulting lens will have poor visual ergonomics, poor visual comfort and poor visual acuity Will have clarity. This is true even when the corrective total additional power is provided by the lens, as 15 mm below the fitting point in FIGS.

  Thus, even though these embodiments of the present invention have a number of superior properties (eg, less unwanted astigmatism) compared to modern PALs, such lenses will be rejected by the user. Deaf must be obvious. Embodiments of the present invention have additional power that is too strong in the mid-range zone, and the optical power gradient from the fitting point to the bottom of the lens is too steep.

  By comparing the additional power measurements shown in FIG. 18 and FIG. 20 for the Essilor Physio® lens, the Essilor Physio® lens of FIG. Obviously, a .00D spherical power region could be added, thereby making it inaccessible to the Essilor Physio® lens of FIG. Thus, generally the spherical power region and / or progressive optical power region takes into account the gradient of optical power between the long and short distance zones in order to provide proper medium and / or long and medium distance corrections. It must be obvious that it must be designed in.

  FIG. 21 shows four regions of a lens according to an embodiment of the present invention: a far zone 2110, an upper far middle zone 2120, a middle zone 2130, and a near zone 2140. These areas are not shown to scale. The upper far-medium distance zone may have a height from point H to point I and a width from point A to point B. The intermediate distance zone may have a height from point I to point J and a width from point C to point D. The near zone may have a height from point J to point G and a width from point E to point F. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the inventive lens provides the wearer with proper correction for long and short distance zones, and optical power that allows the wearer to view properly at long and medium distances. Can provide an optimization gradient. In certain embodiments of the invention, the lens may have a vertical stability of visual acuity in the upper far-intermediate zone and / or a vertical stability of visual acuity in the middle-distance zone. In embodiments of the present invention that do not have a far-medium distance zone, the medium distance zone may have increased visual stability vertical stability (ie, extend further vertically).

  An additional far-medium range area may be provided below the short-range zone. In such an embodiment, this region may be referred to as the “lower” far-medium zone and the far-medium region between the far and middle regions may be referred to as the “upper” far-medium region. The upper and lower far-inner zones can have the same optical power. A lower far middle zone may be included in embodiments of the present invention to allow a presbyopic wearer to more easily see his or her foot or floor when looking down. This may provide additional safety when going up and down stairs.

  Embodiments of the invention can include one or more discontinuities between the regions of the lens. In general, embodiments of the present invention only include a single discontinuity. The discontinuity can be caused by a discontinuous surface or discontinuous optical power between two different regions of the lens. The discontinuity can be caused by a step increase or decrease in optical power. A discontinuity is defined by any change in the lens surface or lens optical power that leads to perceptual image distortion when viewed through the lens. By way of example only, the inventor has produced various lenses and optical power discontinuities of less than approximately 0.10 D when the lenses are placed at a distance from the eye that matches the manner in which spectacle lenses are generally worn. We found that it is difficult to perceive image disturbance when the lens has a part. However, optical power discontinuities greater than approximately 0.10D to 0.12D can be visually detected in most cases. In addition, optical power discontinuities that can be perceived by the lens wearer can interfere with the wearer's visual acuity during visual tasks such as, for example, looking at a computer screen. The optical power values described above for the discontinuities are merely representative, and the discontinuities are defined as any change in the lens surface or optical power that leads to the ability to perceive image distortion when viewed through the lens. That should be noted.

  The inventors have further established that certain discontinuities are more noticeable and / or disturbing than others. Thus, embodiments of the present invention may include one or more discontinuities that are less noticeable and / or less disturbing. The inventor has found that the discontinuity between the lens's far zone and the upper far-middle zone is much more than the discontinuity in the middle zone, in the near zone, or between the middle zone and the near zone I have found that it is often visually acceptable by users. In addition, the inventors have shown that the narrower the mixing zone that mixes at least some of the discontinuities, the faster the eye will transition beyond any image disturbance or haze created by the mixing zone. It was confirmed that the eye transitioned well beyond the discontinuity. Thus it seems to indicate that the discontinuity should not be mixed, but must be balanced by the positive visual effect of mixing the discontinuities to create a discontinuity that is almost invisible. I must.

  Embodiments of the present invention comprise one or more discontinuities, which can be caused by steps of optical power greater than + 0.12D. Embodiments may have a single discontinuity that is at least partially mixed by a mixing zone having a width of less than approximately 2.0 mm or between approximately 1.0 mm and 0.5 mm. This width of the mixing zone can be created by diamond turning. However, in another embodiment of the invention, the discontinuities are not mixed. In embodiments of the present invention, the discontinuities can be created by steps of optical power greater than approximately + 0.50D, and in most cases greater than approximately + 0.25D. The optical power steps and thus the discontinuities are usually, but not always, located between the far and middle distance zones of the inventive lens. Alternatively, when the lens does not have a far-middle distance zone, the discontinuity is usually placed between the far and middle distance zones of the lens. Figures 25 and 26 illustrate such a step increase in optical power before the progressive optical power region begins according to the semi-inventive embodiment.

  All embodiments of the present invention provide the ability to have three usable zones of optical power: a long zone, a medium zone and a short zone. Embodiments of the present invention may also provide the ability to have a fourth zone, an upper far and middle distance zone, and in some embodiments, a fifth zone, a lower far and middle distance zone. Embodiments of the present invention can:

  a) Increase the length of the channel to provide an additional 2 to 3 mm plateau of optical power to provide upper far-medium distance correction. Such an optical power zone can be useful when using the person's computer or looking at the edge of the person's desk. It should be noted that increasing the channel length may not depend on the vertical dimensions of the spectacle frame that houses the lens.

  b) Increase the channel length to provide an additional 2 to 3 mm plateau of optical power to provide lower far-medium distance correction. Such an optical power zone can be useful when looking at the floor or going up and down stairs. It should be noted that increasing the channel length may not depend on the vertical dimensions of the spectacle frame that houses the lens.

  c) Use one or more discontinuities. One or more discontinuities can be caused by one or more steps of optical power, where a step is either a step increase or a step decrease in optical power. The discontinuity uses very little, if any, lens land to increase or decrease the optical power, so the channel is designed to give a plateau of optical power without extending the length of the channel Can be done. It is important to note that the larger the optical power step, the more land in the lens can be provided with the optical power plateau. In an embodiment of the invention, a plateau of optical power is provided after the discontinuity to provide far-medium distance correction. This is accomplished without adding channel length. FIG. 22 shows an embodiment of the invention having two plateaus 2230 and 2240 of optical power, and FIG. 23 shows the invention having three plateaus 2330, 2340 and 2350 of optical power. The embodiment of is shown.

  d) Keep the channel length the same, but ramp the optical power faster between different zones of optical power. It should be noted that this usually leads to problems with the wearer's visual comfort and eye strain.

  e) Use the optical power step reduction just below the short-range zone to give the lower far-medium zone. It should be noted that the lower far-medium zone may only be possible if there is enough lens land below the short-range part of the lens.

  FIG. 22 shows the optical power along the central vertical centerline of an embodiment of the present invention that includes a progressive optical power region connecting the far zone to the near zone. The figure is not drawn to scale. The optical power of the far zone is shown as plano and is therefore represented by the X axis 2210. The progressive optical power region begins at the lens fitting point 2220. Alternatively, the progressive optical power region can begin below the fitting point. While the optical power in the progressive optical power region increases over the length of the channel, the progressive optical power region can provide two plateaus of optical power within the channel. The first plateau 2230 provides upper far-medium correction and the second plateau 2240 provides medium-range correction. Alternatively, the progressive optical power region provides a single plateau of optical power that provides either medium distance correction or far-medium distance correction. The first plateau of optical power may have a vertical length along the channel between approximately 1 mm and approximately 6 mm or between approximately 2 mm and approximately 3 mm. However, in all cases, the optical power plateau has a vertical length of approximately 1 mm. With two plateaus, after the first plateau of optical power, the optical power provided by the progressive optical power region increases to the second plateau of optical power. The second plateau of optical power may have a vertical length along the channel between approximately 1 mm and approximately 6 mm or between approximately 2 mm and approximately 3 mm. After the second plateau of optical power, the optical power provided by the progressive addition region increases until the total near field optical power reaches 2250. After short range optical power is achieved, the optical power provided by the progressive optical power region may begin to decrease. If the optical power is reduced to between approximately 20% and approximately 44% of the additional power in the short-range zone, a lower mid-range zone can be provided.

  FIG. 23 illustrates the optical power along the central vertical centerline of an embodiment of the present invention that includes a progressive optical power region connecting the far zone to the near zone. The figure is not drawn to scale. The optical power of the far zone is shown as plano and is therefore represented by the X axis 2310. The progressive optical power region begins at the lens fitting point 2320. Alternatively, the progressive optical power region can begin below the fitting point. While the optical power in the progressive optical power region increases over the length of the channel, the progressive optical power region can provide three plateaus of optical power within the channel. The first plateau 2330 provides upper far-medium distance correction, the second plateau 2340 provides medium-range correction, and the third plateau 2350 provides short-range correction. The first plateau of optical power may have a vertical length along the channel between approximately 1 mm and approximately 6 mm or between approximately 2 mm and approximately 3 mm. However, in all cases, the optical power plateau has a vertical length of approximately 1 mm. After the first plateau of optical power, the optical power provided by the progressive optical power region increases to the second plateau of optical power. The second plateau of optical power may have a vertical length along the channel between approximately 1 mm and approximately 6 mm or between approximately 2 mm and approximately 3 mm. After the second plateau of optical power, the optical power provided by the progressive optical power region increases to the third plateau of optical power. The third plateau of optical power may have a vertical length along the channel between approximately 1 mm and approximately 6 mm or between approximately 2 mm and approximately 3 mm. After near field optical power is achieved at 2360, the optical power provided by the progressive optical power region may begin to decrease. If the optical power is reduced to between approximately 20% and approximately 44% of the additional power in the short-range zone, a lower mid-range zone can be provided.

  FIG. 24 shows an optical along the central vertical centerline of an embodiment of the present invention that includes a generally spherical power region, a discontinuity, and a progressive optical power region connecting the far zone to the near zone. Indicates power. The figure is not drawn to scale. The optical power of the far zone is shown as plano and is therefore represented by the X axis 2410. The progressive optical power region begins at or near the lens fitting point 2420. The discontinuity 2430 can be caused by a generally spherical power region, which causes an optical power step and provides optical power 2440. The progressive optical power region can start from above the discontinuity. In this case, the beginning of the progressive optical power region measures the optical power of the far zone and above the discontinuity where the optical power of the lens begins to gradually increase to positive optical power or decrease to negative optical power. It can be placed by placing an area or region of the lens. The difference between the optical power immediately before the discontinuity and immediately after the discontinuity is called the “optical power step”. If the optical power increases from the front of the continuous part to the back of the continuous part, an “optical power step increase” occurs. If the optical power decreases from the front of the continuous part to the back of the continuous part, an “optical power step reduction” occurs. Therefore, if the progressive optical power region starts from above the discontinuity, the total optical power of the lens immediately before the discontinuity is the optical power of the progressive optical power region and the long-distance zone, just behind the discontinuity. The total optical power of the lens is then the optical power caused by the optical power step, the progressive addition area and the optical power of the far zone. Alternatively, in the progressive optical power region, the total optical power of the lens is far-distance optical power just before the discontinuity, and once the progressive optical power region starts just behind the discontinuity, the total optical power of the lens is The optical power caused by the optical power step and the progressive addition region and the optical power of the far zone can start from below the discontinuity. The progressive optical power region can begin just behind the discontinuity. Alternatively, the progressive optical power region may start from 1 millimeter or more from the discontinuity, thereby creating an optical power plateau 2450 that may be useful for mid-range and upper far-medium range fields. In some embodiments of the invention, the progressive optical power region has a negative optical power 2460 that decreases the total optical power of the lens before having a positive optical power that increases the total optical power of the lens. obtain. For example, the optical power caused by the optical power step can be higher than that required for a proper far-medium distance field of view. In this case, the discontinuity or part of the progressive optical power region immediately behind it may reduce the optical power of the lens to provide adequate upper far-medium distance correction. The progressive optical power region can then be increased in optical power to provide a suitable intermediate distance correction 2470. The optical power in the progressive optical power region can be further increased to the full short-distance optical power 2480 and then can begin to decrease again. Thus, the generally spherical power region and the progressive optical power region may each have incremental additional power that together provide the total additional power of the lens. If the optical power is reduced to between approximately 20% and approximately 44% of the additional power in the short-range zone, a lower mid-range zone can be provided.

  In embodiments of the present invention where the progressive optical power region begins above the discontinuity, the optical power provided by the progressive optical power region may initially be zero or negative. Discontinuities can be caused by optical power steps. The optical power caused by the optical power step can be approximately equal to the optical power required for proper mid-range or far-medium range correction. Thus, if the initial optical power provided by the progressive optical power region is zero, the composite optical power after the discontinuity will be an appropriate mid-range or far-medium range correction. Similarly, the optical power caused by the optical power step can be greater than that required for proper mid-range or far-medium range correction. Thus, if the initial optical power provided by the progressive optical power region is negative, the composite optical power after the discontinuity will be an appropriate mid-range or far-medium range correction. In either case, if the progressive optical power region initially provides positive optical power, the composite optical power after the discontinuity will be too strong. This was proved in the case of FIGS. In addition, if the optical power step causes higher optical power than is required for proper mid-range or far-medium range correction, the lower additional power progressive optical power region thereby improves the optical properties of the lens. It should be noted that can be used. It should be noted that the less optical power in the progressive optical power region, the less unwanted astigmatism and distortion will be added to the final lens.

  Alternatively, in embodiments of the present invention where the progressive optical power region begins above the discontinuity, the optical power provided by the progressive optical power region may initially be positive. In these embodiments, the optical power caused by the optical power step is reduced until it is less than the optical power required for proper mid-range correction or proper far-range correction. Thus, if the initial optical power provided by the progressive optical power region is positive, the composite optical power after the discontinuity will be an appropriate mid-range or far-medium range correction. However, in this embodiment, undesired astigmatism and distortion are generally greater in the final lens than in embodiments where the optical power in the spherical region is equal to or greater than the optical power provided by the progressive optical power region. It should be noted.

  FIG. 25 shows an optical along the central vertical centerline of an embodiment of the present invention that includes a generally spherical power region, a discontinuity, and a progressive optical power region connecting the far zone to the near zone. Indicates power. The figure is not drawn to scale. The optical power of the far zone is shown as plano and is therefore represented by the X axis 2510. The discontinuity 2520 may be located below the fitting point 2530, for example approximately 3 mm below the fitting point. The discontinuity can be caused mostly by a spherical power region, which causes an optical power step, giving an optical power 2540. The progressive optical power region may begin from a portion of a generally spherical power region, for example, just behind the discontinuity 2550. The generally spherical power region may have an “aspherical portion” 2560 within approximately 3-5 mm of the discontinuity. After this portion, the generally spherical power region can be substantially spherical. The combination of optical power in the progressive optical power region and optical power in the aspherical portion of the spherical power region is an optical that increases in a generally continuous manner immediately after the discontinuity, as opposed to a sharp step increase in optical power. A composite progressive optical power region having power may be formed. The net optical effect is that the optical power step is less than the total optical power 2570 provided by the generally spherical power region. The aspherical part and the progressive optical power region make it possible to progressively achieve sufficient optical power in the generally spherical power region after the discontinuity. The aspherical portion may provide a suitable upper far-medium distance correction 2580. Alternatively, the progressive optical power region may provide additional optical power that provides adequate upper far-medium distance correction. The progressive optical power region can then be increased in optical power to provide a suitable intermediate distance correction 2585. Alternatively, only proper far-medium distance correction cannot be provided. The optical power in the progressive optical power region can be further increased to the full short range optical power 2590 and then can begin to decrease again. Thus, the generally spherical power region and the progressive optical power region may each have incremental additional power that together provide the total additional power of the lens. In an embodiment of the present invention, the lower far-medium distance correction 2595 may be provided by a step reduction in optical power after the short distance zone. Alternatively, the lower far-medium distance zone can be provided by a progressive optical power region that provides negative optical power that reduces the optical power of the lens.

  FIG. 26 shows an optical along the central vertical centerline of an embodiment of the present invention that includes a generally spherical power region, a discontinuity, and a progressive optical power region connecting the far zone to the near zone. Indicates power. The figure is not drawn to scale. The optical power of the far zone is shown as plano and is therefore represented by the X axis 2610. The discontinuity 2620 may be located between the far zone and the upper far-medium zone 2640 below the fitting point 2630. Alternatively, the discontinuity can be located between the far zone and the middle zone 2650 below the fitting point. The discontinuity can be caused by a generally spherical power region, which causes an optical power step and provides optical power 2660. The optical power step may be equal to the optical power required for long-to-medium distance correction. Alternatively, the optical power step may be equal to the optical power required for medium distance correction. The progressive optical power region may begin at 2670, which is generally part of the spherical power region, eg, just behind or slightly behind the discontinuity. If the progressive optical power region starts from below the discontinuity, then either the upper far-medium zone or the middle-range zone can be provided in the optical power plateau. The progressive optical power region may continue to full short range optical power 2680 and then provide a negative optical power that reduces the optical power of the lens. Thus, the generally spherical power region and the progressive optical power region may each have incremental additional power that together provide the total additional power of the lens. If the optical power is reduced to between approximately 20% and approximately 44% of the additional power in the short-range zone, a lower mid-range zone can be provided. In some embodiments of the invention, the lens may include a plateau of optical power for any distance zone.

  In an embodiment of the invention, the lens may provide near + 2.00D additional power. The lens has an embedded generally spherical power region (ie, generally spherical) with optical power of + 1.00D aligned so that the top edge of the generally spherical power region is aligned approximately 3 mm below the lens fitting point. The power region may include an incremental additional power). The lens may have a progressive optical power surface having a progressive optical power region disposed on the convex outer surface of the lens. Alternatively, the progressive optical power surface can be placed on the concave surface of the lens, divided into both outer surfaces of the lens, or embedded in the lens. The progressive optical power region has an initial optical power of zero that increases to a maximum optical power of +1.00 D (ie, the progressive optical power region has incremental additional power). The progressive optical power region is aligned so that the beginning of that channel with zero optical power begins approximately 10 mm below the lens fitting point. In other words, the progressive optical power region is aligned so that the beginning of its channel is approximately 7 mm below the discontinuity caused by the step increase in optical power caused by the buried spherical power region. In this embodiment, no far-medium distance zone is found in the lens. However, the mid-range zone has a visual stability of a minimum of approximately 7 mm, which is much larger than any commercially available PAL lens. As can be readily appreciated, the combined optical power of progressive and generally spherical power regions does not begin until approximately 7 mm below the top edge of the generally spherical power region. Thus, the optical power from approximately 3 mm below the fitting to approximately 10 mm below the fitting point is the +1.00 D optical power provided by the generally spherical power region. This optical power is 50% of the short-distance additional power, thus providing adequate mid-range correction.

  In yet another embodiment of the invention, the lens may provide near + 2.50D additional power. The lens is free-formed on the concave rear annulus / astigmatism corrective outer surface of the lens, aligned so that the top edge of the generally spherical power region is approximately 4 mm below the lens fitting point + 1.25D optical It can have a generally spherical power region with power (ie, a generally spherical power region has incremental additional power). The lens may have a progressive optical power region disposed on the front convex surface of the lens and having an initial optical power of zero increasing to a maximum optical power of + 1.25D (ie, the progressive optical power region is With incremental additional power). The progressive optical power region is aligned so that the beginning of its channel begins approximately 10 mm below the lens fitting point. In other words, the progressive optical power region is aligned so that the beginning of the channel is approximately 6 mm below the discontinuity caused by the step increase in optical power caused by the buried spherical power region. In this embodiment of the invention, no far-medium distance zone is found in the inventive lens. However, the mid-range zone has a visual stability of a minimum of approximately 6 mm, which is much larger than any commercially available PAL lens. As can be easily understood, the combined optical power of progressive optical power and generally spherical power region is approximately below the top edge of the spherical power region (the top edge of the generally spherical power region where the discontinuity is located). It doesn't start until 6mm behind. Thus, the optical power from approximately 4 mm below the fitting to approximately 10 mm below the fitting point is the + 1.25D optical power provided by the generally spherical power region. This optical power is 50% of the short-distance additional power, thus providing adequate mid-range correction.

  In an embodiment of the invention, the lens may provide near + 2.25D additional power. The lens has an embedded generally spherical power region (i.e., generally has an optical power of + 0.75D, aligned so that the top edge of the generally spherical power region is aligned approximately 3 mm below the lens fitting point. The spherical power region may include an incremental additional power. The lens may have a progressive optical power surface having a progressive optical power region disposed on the convex outer surface of the lens. Alternatively, the progressive optical power surface can be placed on the concave surface of the lens, divided into both outer surfaces of the lens, or embedded in the lens. The progressive optical power region has an initial optical power of zero that increases to a maximum optical power of + 1.50D (ie, the progressive optical power region has incremental additional power). The progressive optical power region is aligned so that the beginning of that channel with zero optical power begins approximately 7 mm below the lens fitting point. In other words, the progressive optical power region is aligned so that the beginning of its channel is approximately 4 mm below the discontinuity caused by the step increase in optical power caused by the buried spherical power region. In this embodiment, a far-medium distance zone is found in the lens. The far-medium distance zone has a visual stability of a minimum of approximately 4 mm. Commercially available PALs do not have a far-middle distance zone or a long-middle distance zone that has such a long vertical stability of vision. As can be readily appreciated, the combined optical power of the progressive optical power region and the generally spherical power region does not begin until approximately 4 mm below the top edge of the generally spherical power region. Thus, the optical power from approximately 3 mm below the fitting to approximately 7 mm below the fitting point is the + 0.75D optical power provided by the generally spherical power region. This optical power is 33.33% of the short-distance additional power, thus providing adequate far-medium range correction.

  It should be noted that the above embodiments are provided as examples only and are not meant to limit the distance from the fitting point for alignment of the progressive optical power region or the generally spherical power region. Furthermore, the optical power given in the examples is not meant to be limiting. Furthermore, it should not be construed as a limitation whether the location of the region is on the surface of the lens, divided between the surfaces of the lens, or embedded within the lens. Finally, although certain embodiments described above may teach a lack of far-middle distance zones, far-middle distance zones may be included by changing the alignment and / or the optical power provided by each region.

  As described above, in the embodiment of the present invention, the first optical power region having the first incremental additional power includes the second optical power region having the second incremental additional power and the wearer. There may be an optical communication such that the two incremental additional powers are optically aligned to provide an appropriate short-range correction. Incremental additional power can be provided by refraction or diffraction. In other words, the optical power region can be part of a refractive or diffractive optic. The first optical power region can be a generally spherical power region, and the second optical power region can be a progressive optical power region. The generally spherical power region may thus have a generally spherical incremental additional power, and the progressive optical power region may therefore have a progressive incremental additional power.

In embodiments of the invention, the generally spherical power region can be on the surface of the ophthalmic lens or can be embedded within the ophthalmic lens. The generally spherical incremental additional power can be in a refractive power region that produces optical power in a refractive manner. Alternatively, the generally spherical incremental additional power may be in a diffractive optical power region that generates optical power in a diffractive manner. For both refractive and diffractive optical power regions, optical power is generated by the optical interface between the first optical material and the second optical material having different refractive indices. The refractive power region can be part of the surface of a sphere whose optical power is defined by φ = (n ₂ −n ₁ ) / R. Where φ is the optical power of the diopter in the refractive power region, n ₂ is the refractive index of the first optical material, n ₁ is the refractive index of the second optical material, and R is the sphere Radius. The refractive power region is composed of thickness, refractive index, and curvature change.

The diffractive optical power region can be a phase-wrapped surface relief diffractive structure composed of concentric rings of appropriate blaze profile. Such structures are well known in the art. The optical power of such a diffractive optical power region is defined by r _i = [(2iλ) / φ] ^1/2 . Here, r _i is the radius of the i-th ring (i = 1, 2, 3,...), Λ is the design wavelength of the diffractive optical power region, and φ is the diffractive optical power region. This is the optical power of the diopter. The radius of the ring determines the optical power in the diffractive optical power region, while the height d of the surface relief diffractive structure determines the fraction of incident light that is in focus (ie, the diffraction efficiency of the diffractive optical power region). Maximum diffraction efficiency is achieved when the phase delay of the diffractive optical power region is an integer number of wavelengths as defined by (n ₂ −n ₁ ) d = mλ. Here, n2 is the refractive index of the first optical material, n1 is the refractive index of the second optical material, d is the height of the diffractive structure, and λ is the design wavelength of the diffractive optical power region. And m is an integer (m = 1, 2, 3,...).

  In an embodiment of the present invention, a first multifocal optical component having a refractive progressive optical power region may be provided. The refractive progressive optical power region may have an incremental additional power of +1.00 D, but any additional power is possible. By way of example only, the first multifocal optic is composed of CR39 resin (registered by PPG) and may have a refractive index of approximately 1.50. The first multifocal optic can be cured (by way of example only by thermal casting) on the surface of the second multifocal optic to form a composite lens. The second multifocal optic may have at least one generally spherical power region with incremental additional power. The second multifocal optical component can be a lens, lens wafer, finished lens blank, or semi-finished lens blank. The second multifocal optical component may be composed of a cured polymer, such as Mitsui MR10 having a refractive index of approximately 1.67 by way of example only. The second multifocal optical component can have at least one multifocal surface capable of generating one or more optical powers. The multifocal surface can be on the exterior of the second multifocal optic before being covered by the first multifocal optic.

  Multifocal optics include refraction performing bifocal, refraction lined FT28, refraction FT35, refraction curve top 28, refraction curve top 35, refraction 7x35 trifocal, refraction vortex bifocal, refraction round 22 A focal point, a non-refractive (ie diffractive) optical power region having a surface relief diffraction pattern designed to provide a specific positive diopter optical power, or any other having a generally spherical incremental additional power region One of the multifocal optical components (just as an example). The second multifocal optical component can have any combination of optical power.

  In most embodiments of the invention, the generally spherical power region having the first incremental additional power region is physically separated (ie, spaced) from the progressive optical power region having the second incremental additional power region. It should be noted that it is in optical communication with it. The generally spherical power region can be a buried refractive diffractive optical power region. In another embodiment of the invention, the first incremental additional power is part of the refractive optical power region and is optically aligned with and optically aligned with the second incremental additional power that is part of the diffractive optical power region. In contact but not spaced (ie, in physical contact). In embodiments of the present invention, the horizontal diameter of the generally spherical power region (regardless of whether the region is diffractive or refracted) is wider than the read zone width of the lens defined by the progressive optical power region.

  In most but not all cases, the diffractive optical power region can provide optical power in the range of + 0.50D and + 1.50D, although any optical power is possible. One skilled in the art can easily design such diffractive optics. The optical power at or near the outer edge of either the diffractive optical power region or the lined boundary of the generally spherical incremental additional power region causes the peripheral edge discontinuity of the second multifocal optics to fall within the composite lens. It should be further noted that it can be mixed to hide. Such mixing can be that of optical power mixing, light efficiency mixing or a combination of both.

  In some embodiments of the invention, the second multifocal optic has an embedded diffractive optical power region therein that provides an incremental additional power of +1.00 D within the semi-finished lens blank, so that one of the optic components It can be provided as a semi-finished lens blank with the outer surface completed and the other facing surface unfinished. However, it should be noted that the incremental additional power in the diffractive optical power region can be in the range of + 1.50D to + 0.25D. A first multifocal optic with a refractive incremental additional power region can be cast and cured on the surface of a second multifocal optic having a diffractive incremental additional power region to form a composite optic, thereby providing a refractive increment. The additional power region is spaced (ie, physically separated) from the diffractive incremental additional power region, but is aligned so that both refractive and diffractive incremental additional power regions are in optical communication with each other.

  In this embodiment, the diffractive incremental additional power region is embedded in the finished composite lens, lens blank or semi-finished lens blank. In such embodiments, the composite lens comprises an outer front surface having a refractive progressive optical power region, an embedded diffractive optical power region, and an unfinished outer back surface that can be freely formed or surface treated and polished at a later date. Can have. In some embodiments of the invention, the embedded diffractive optical power region is disposed within the semifinished lens blank, and a refractive progressive optical power region is added to the semifinished lens blank during the step of free forming the semifinished lens. It should be noted that they are aligned with each other. This is done in such a way that the buried diffractive optical power region is aligned and in proper optical communication with the newly added (ie free forming) refractive progressive optical power region. In another embodiment of the present invention, the embedded diffractive optical power region is disposed within the incomplete lens blank, and the refractive progressive optical power region is in the incomplete lens blank during the step of free forming the incomplete lens blank. It should be noted that they are added and properly aligned. This is done in such a way that the buried diffractive optical power region is aligned and in proper optical communication with the newly added (ie free forming) refractive progressive optical power region. The embedded diffractive optical power region provides optical power to the composite lens by the refractive index difference between the first multifocal optical component material composition and the second multifocal optical component material composition.

  In this particular embodiment of the invention, the first multifocal optic comprises a material having a refractive index of approximately 1.50 and the second multifocal optic has a refractive index of approximately 1.67. However, it should be understood that the material for each optical component can be converted and, for that matter, can be any refractive index as long as the two materials have two different refractive indices. is there.

  Embodiments of the invention can be described by a generally spherical power region. However, since the diffractive optical power region is generally a type of spherical incremental additional power region, it should be understood that these embodiments also describe embodiments of the invention that include a diffractive optical power region. Accordingly, the size, shape and optical design of the diffractive optical power region can be the same as the size, shape and optical design of the generally spherical power region as described by embodiments of the present invention. Similarly, the alignment of the diffractive optical power region relative to the progressive optical power region can be the same as the alignment of the generally spherical power region relative to the progressive optical region as described by embodiments of the present invention.

  In another embodiment of the invention, the lined bifocal may be a second multifocal optic. A lined bifocal multifocal surface can be embedded in the composite lens. In this embodiment, a lined bifocal refraction curve is required for the refractive index of the material used for a given second multifocal optic and the refractive index of the material used for the first multifocal optic. Can be designed to give the appropriate additional power. In most but not all cases, the additional power contribution (ie incremental additional power) of the second multifocal optic is one of + 0.25D, + 0.50D, + 0.75D, + 1.00D, + 1.25D. In some cases, it can be + 1.50D or any optical power within the range of + 0.25D and + 1.50D. In most but not all cases, the long-range optical power of the second multifocal optical component is zero optical power. The optical power contribution of the refractive progressive optical region on the first multifocal optic is the long-range optical power correction for the wearer and, if not all, + 0.75D, + 1.00D, + 1.25D , And one of + 1.50D, or + 0.75D and an incremental additional power contribution that is any optical power within the range of + 1.50D.

  In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the outer rear surface of the composite lens can be completed. When the outer posterior surface of the composite lens is completed, the posterior surface may provide the necessary posterior curvature that provides some of the wearer's long-range, medium-range and / or near-range vision correction. Thus, the synthetic lens may be capable of correcting wearer refractive errors such as astigmatism, hyperopia, myopia and / or presbyopia of the wearer. When the rear surface is unfinished (eg, the second multifocal optic is a semi-finished lens blank), the composite lens does not have the final finished optical power. It should be noted that it is possible to free form a suitable refractive curve on one or both of the outer surfaces of the lens.

  In another embodiment of the present invention, a thin optical wafer having a multifocal surface can be embedded in a cavity filled with uncured resin to form a synthetic lens when the resin is cured. Thus, the resin can form both outer surfaces of the synthetic lens once the resin is cured. Multifocal surfaces can generate optical power by refraction or diffraction. The resin has a refractive index different from that of the thin optical wafer. One of the surfaces of the uncured resin, once cured, forms a refractive progressive optical power region (or, for that matter, any desired refractive optical power region) having an outer surface curvature. obtain. The resin may be cured, for example, by one of thermosetting, (visible or invisible) photocuring, or a combination of photocuring and thermosetting. The optical wafer can be held in place, by way of example only, with a gasket used in the casting process.

  In another embodiment of the present invention, the first thin optical component may have a progressive optical power region on its surface. This first thin optical component can be preformed or formed in situ via casting or molding. Such casting or molding methods are well known and can be thermosetting, photocuring, or a combination of both. The first thin optical component has a known refractive index. The first thin optical component is formed on top of a different thin layer of prefabricated optical component material (second optical component perform) that has a different refractive index than the thin optical component to form a composite optical component. obtain. When both the first thin optical component and the second optical component perform are preformed together, they can be adhesively bonded together. When the first thin optical component is formed in situ, it can be cast directly onto the second optical component perform. The second preform may have a generally spherical power region that provides an incremental additional power region that produces optical power by refraction or diffraction. The newly formed composite optical component is a composite lens having a refractive progressive optical power region, an embedded generally spherical power region, and an outer surface having an unfinished outer surface that can be completed by manufacturing techniques known in the art. Can be adhesively bonded to a thicker non-finished lens blank.

  In most, but not all, embodiments of the present invention, an optical component perform with a generally spherical incremental additional power region is an integral consumption rear that is placed behind the optical gasket used to cast the ophthalmic lens. Can be used as a mold. The term “integrated consumption” is not only used as a mold where the lens or optical component forms the back of the synthetic lens, but also on the part of the synthetic lens where the lens or optical component is consumed and cured in the mold. Used to indicate that it will become cemented and thereby become an integral part of the final composite lens. The front mold can be provided through a glass or metal mold utilized in casting ophthalmic lenses. The cavity formed between the front mold and the back consumer mold can be filled with an optical resin that has a suitable refractive index and is cured. For example, curing can be one of thermal curing, light curing, or a combination of both, depending on the initiator required and the material being cured. In this embodiment of the invention, the surface of the optical component perform with a generally spherical incremental additional power region is placed facing the uncured resin layer, which has a different index of refraction and is generally later Bond to the surface of an optical component perform with a spherical incremental additional power region. Upon curing, this interface forms an interface where two materials with different refractive indices meet. This index mismatch provides the appropriate embedded incremental additional power provided.

  In embodiments of the present invention, the molding technique just described can provide for the manufacture of either semi-finished or finished lens blanks. When casting the composite lens as a finished lens blank, the consumer mold can be pre-manufactured with a suitable toric curve on the outer rear surface to correct the wearer's astigmatism refractive disorder. The consumption mold can then be rotated within the gasket to align the astigmatism axis with respect to the front surface mold that forms the curvature of the progressive optical power region in the composite lens. Techniques for setting the axis of astigmatism correction are well known in the technical field of finished eye lens casting.

  In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a front integral consumption mold made of optical plastic material (or that of an optical component perform) may be used. The front integral consumption mold or optical component perform is preformed with a refractive progressive optical power region curvature on its outer surface and a spherical power region on its inner rear surface that generates optical power by refraction or diffraction. obtain. In this case, glass or metal molds can be used on the back to form cavities that are filled with resin and then cured to form a synthetic lens. The front consumption mold in this case can be integrated with the cured resin optical component to be formed. Following this, the back of the synthetic lens can be free-formed or ground and polished. Also, as previously discussed, the rear surface of the composite lens, upon curing, requires the necessary torsional curvature and / or wearer's as required to correct the intended wearer's astigmatism. In addition to short-range optical power correction, it can be molded to a finished surface that provides the appropriate spherical power required for the wearer's long-range optical power correction. When the optical component perform is used as a consumable mold, the surface facing the uncured resin can be a buried incremental additional power region (which can be refractive or diffractive). Furthermore, the refractive indexes of the optical preform and the resin or the new cured layer are different.

  29A-29D illustrate a method of manufacturing a synthetic semi-finished lens blank according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29A shows a different refractive index with a preformed diffractive multifocal optic having a diffractive optical power region and a known refractive index, followed by a progressive optical power region curvature on top of the diffractive multifocal optic. A method of manufacturing a synthetic lens comprising casting a layer of In this embodiment, the diffractive optical power region is configured to be approximately that of a spherical incremental additional power region. FIG. 29B shows the same manufacturing method as FIG. 29A except that a different front cast ophthalmic material is used. FIG. 29C shows a preform diffractive multifocal optic (also called a preform optical insert) having a known refractive index and diffractive optical power region in front of an ophthalmic material having a different refractive index. Encapsulating between the progressive optical power region and the rear additive layer, so that the material of the front progressive optical power region and the rear additive layer is the same, but the material of the diffractive multifocal optics is different A method of manufacturing a lens is shown. FIG. 29D shows the same manufacturing method as FIG. 29C, except that the diffractive multifocal optical material is cast from a different ophthalmic material (such as a different material manufacturer) than the diffractive multifocal optic of FIG. 29C. It should further be noted that the semi-finished lens blank illustrated here can be surface treated or free-formed to become that of the finished lens or finished lens blank. Further, the lens can be made by being completely molded into the final finished lens shape and design by using a suitable resin, mold, and optical component perform combination.

Table 1 is a list of various ophthalmic materials, any two of which can be utilized to make the provided synthetic lens, the two materials being compatible and bonded to each other, or two Either casting is used to promote adhesion between the materials.

  In some embodiments of the invention, the mixing zone shifts the optical power between at least a portion of the generally spherical power region and the far zone. FIGS. 27A-27C illustrate an embodiment of the invention having a mixing zone 2710 with a substantially constant width located at or below the fitting point 2720. FIGS. 28A-28C include fitting point 2820 or a portion with a width of substantially 0 mm disposed below it, thereby providing a transition of this portion similar to a lined bifocal. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention having a mixing zone 2810. FIGS. 27A and 28A show the top edge of the mixing zone placed at the fitting point. Figures 27B and 28B show the top edge of the mixing zone located 3mm below the fitting point. FIGS. 27C and 28C show the top edge of the mixing zone located 6 mm below the fitting point. The portions of the mixing zones 2710 and 2810 are less than approximately 2.0 mm wide and can be between approximately 0.5 mm wide and approximately 1.0 mm wide. It should be noted that embodiments of the present invention contemplate using a mixing zone having a width between approximately 0.1 mm and approximately 1.0 mm. FIG. 28A further shows that the central region of the mixing zone corresponding to the position of the fitting point has a width between approximately 0.1 mm and approximately 0.5 mm. FIG. 28C shows mixing 2810 decreasing to a width that has no mixing in the central region of the mixing zone.

  The generally spherical power region and the far zone each have optical power that can be defined by a particular optical phase profile. In order to create a mixing zone of a given width, in one embodiment of the present invention, at the beginning of the mixing zone, it matches the value of the first optical power region phase profile and the first spatial derivative, and at the end of the mixing zone a second A phase profile is generated that matches the value of the phase profile in the optical power region and the first spatial derivative. In another embodiment of the invention, the beginning and end of the mixing zone phase profile coincide with the first and second order spatial derivatives in addition to the phase profile values of the first and second optical power regions, respectively. In any case, the phase profile of the mixing zone may be described by one or more mathematical functions and / or equations that may include, but are not limited to, second or higher order polynomials, exponential functions, trigonometric functions, and logarithmic functions. . In some embodiments of the invention, the mixing zone is diffractive, in other embodiments of the invention, the mixing zone is refractive, and in yet other embodiments of the invention, the mixing zone has birefringent diffractive subzones.

  In some embodiments of the invention, the width of the mixing zone must be quite narrow in order for the lens to provide high quality vision. The mixing zone must be narrow to allow the wearer's eyes to quickly traverse the mixing zone when the wearer's line of sight switches between the far and medium or near focus. For example, the width of the mixing zone can be less than about 2.0 mm, less than about 1.0 mm, or less than about 0.5 mm. Using conventional ophthalmic lens manufacturing techniques, manufacturing such a narrow mixing zone is very difficult. For example, only the current single point free-form ophthalmic surface generation allows for a mixing zone having a width of more than approximately 0.5 mm. Furthermore, these methods provide little or no control over the exact shape of the mixing zone profile. Glass cannot be single-point machined and must be worked in a grinding process where all fine surface features are lost, so conventional glass molds for casting lenses from liquid monomer resins. Tooling generation is also limited.

  Currently, the only method available to produce lenses with narrow mixing zones with well-controlled profiles that are well known in an economically feasible manner is diamond turning in metal lens molds . In such a method, the diamond tooling facility is provided with either slow or fast tool servo capability, both of which are well known in the art. Such a mold can be produced in materials such as electrolytic Ni or CuNi, by way of example only, and can be used in either a liquid monomer casting process or a thermoplastic injection molding process.

  Each of the above embodiments can be manufactured using diamond turning, free forming, surface casting, whole lens casting, laminating, or molding (including injection molding). In embodiments without a mixing zone, diamond turning has been found to provide the steepest discontinuities and the best fidelity. In most but not all cases, the mold is diamond-turned from a metal such as nickel-coated aluminum or steel, or a copper-nickel alloy, by way of example only. The manufacturing methods or techniques required to produce the optical power step are known in the industry, and as an example only, the actual method of diamond turning a mold or insert and then casting or injection molding a lens The lens consists of diamond turning and free forming.

  In embodiments of the present invention, the latest free-form manufacturing technology can be used to place a toric surface that corrects the refractive impairment of the wearer's astigmatism on the same surface as the generally spherical power region of the lens. is there. When these two different surface curves are generated by free formation, it is then possible to place a progressive optical power region on the opposite surface of the lens. In this case, the progressive optical power region is molded or pre-formed on one surface of the semi-finished lens blank to provide a composite astigmatism correction and spherical power region by free-forming the opposite unfinished surface of the semi-finished blank. The

  In some embodiments of the invention, the generally spherical power region is wider than the narrowest portion of the channel bordered by unwanted astigmatism above approximately 1.00D. In another embodiment of the invention, the generally spherical power region is wider than the narrowest portion of the channel bordered by unwanted astigmatism greater than approximately 0.75D.

  In some embodiments of the present invention, the generally spherical power region may be substantially spherical or may be an aspheric surface that corrects astigmatism, for example. The generally spherical power region may also have one or more aspheric curves placed to improve lens beauty or reduce distortion. In some embodiments of the invention, the inventive multifocal lens is static. In another embodiment of the invention, the inventive multifocal lens is dynamic and the generally spherical power region is dynamically generated, for example by an electroactive element. In some embodiments of the invention, the generally spherical power region is a buried diffractive element, such as a surface relief diffractive element.

  Embodiments of the present invention contemplate the production of semi-finished lens blanks where one completed surface comprises a generally spherical power region, a far zone and a mixing zone, and the other surface is incomplete. The production of semi-finished lens blanks where one completed surface has a progressive optical power region and the other surface is incomplete is also considered. It is also considered that a finished lens blank is produced for a prescription. It should also be noted that optimizing the progressive optical power region to optimize the level of unwanted astigmatism, channel length, and channel width for a generally spherical power region is also considered. . In addition, if desired, it is considered to optimize the mixing zone to further reduce unwanted astigmatism found in the mixing zone. Furthermore, any lens material can be used, whether plastic, glass, resin or composite. The use of any optically useful refractive index is also contemplated. Just as an example, all coatings and lens treatments that would normally be used in ophthalmic lenses are used, such as hard scratch resistant coatings, anti-reflective coatings, cushion coatings and self-cleaning Teflon coatings obtain. Finally, embodiments of the invention include, but are not limited to, surface finishing, free forming, diamond turning, rolling, drawing, injection molding, surface casting, laminating, edging, polishing, and drilling. Can be produced by techniques known in the art.

  Embodiments of the present invention can be used with contact lenses and eyeglass lenses.

In order to more clearly show the superiority of the inventive multifocal lens over the current state-of-the-art PALs, embodiments of the present invention were compared with two newest PALs. Lens measurements were taken from the Visionix VM-2500 (registered trademark) lens mapper, registered trademark by Visionix. One of the latest PALs is the Varilux Physio® lens, registered by Varilux, which has approximately + 2.00D additional power. Another newer PAL is the Varilux Ellipse® lens, registered by Varilux, with a short channel design and approximately + 2.00D additional power. As can be seen in Table 2, the Physio lens has a maximum unwanted astigmatism of 1.68D, a channel width of 10.5 mm, and a channel length of 17.0 mm. The ellipse lens has a maximum unwanted astigmatism of 2.00 D, a channel width of 8.5 mm, and a channel length of 13.5 mm. The inventive lens also has an additional power of approximately +2.00. However, compared to that, the invention is less and has a maximum undesirable astigmatism of less than 1.00D. Since the maximum unwanted astigmatism is less than 1.00D, the channel width is as wide as the lens itself for all purposes and purposes. After all, the channel length is 14.5 mm. Both the Visionix VM-2500 (registered trademark) lens mapper and the Rotlex Class Plus (registered trademark) lens mapper are undesired astigmatism in the discontinuities of the inventive lens. It should also be noted that the aberration could not be found due to its small width.

Claims (25)

An ophthalmic lens having a long-distance zone,
A diffractive optical power region to provide a first incremental additional optical power;
A discontinuity disposed between the far zone and the diffractive optical power region;
A progressive optical power region for providing a second enhanced additional power, wherein at least a portion of the diffractive optical power region and the progressive optical power region have the first incremental additional optical power and the second incremental additional optical power together. An ophthalmic lens in optical communication that provides additional optical power for the user at close range.   The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, further comprising a flat region of optical power disposed in a portion of the progressive optical power region for providing vertical stability of visual acuity to the intermediate distance zone of the ophthalmic lens.   The ophthalmic lens according to claim 2, wherein the flat area of the optical power has a vertical length of approximately 1 millimeter to approximately 3 millimeters.   The ophthalmic lens according to claim 2, wherein the flat area of the optical power has a vertical length of approximately 2 millimeters to approximately 6 millimeters or more.   The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, further comprising a mixing zone for mixing optical power across at least a portion of the discontinuity.   The ophthalmic lens of claim 5, wherein at least a portion of the mixing zone has a width of approximately 2.0 millimeters or less.   The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the ophthalmic lens has an intermediate distance zone, the intermediate distance zone having an additional power that is between approximately 45% and approximately 55% of the short-range additional power.   The lens has a fitting point, the top edge of the diffractive optical power region is located between approximately 3 millimeters and approximately 4 millimeters below the fitting point, and the progressive optical power region is the diffractive optical power region The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, beginning between approximately 4 millimeters and approximately 8 millimeters from the top edge of the lens.   The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the discontinuity is caused by an optical power step.   The ophthalmic lens of claim 9, wherein the optical power step is an optical power step increase of at least approximately + 0.12D.   The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein the diffractive optical power region is disposed on a surface of the lens or embedded in the lens.   The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein the progressive optical power region is disposed on a surface of the lens or embedded in the lens.   The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the progressive optical power region comprises a progressive optical power surface, the progressive optical power surface being generated by either free forming, molding or surface casting.   The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein the diffractive optical power region is generated by either forming a free surface of the lens, molding the surface of the lens, or embedding the surface in the lens.   The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the lens has an upper far middle distance zone, the upper far middle distance zone having an additional power that is between approximately 20% and approximately 44% of the short distance additional power.   The lens has a fitting point, the top edge of the diffractive optical power region is located between approximately 2 millimeters and approximately 5 millimeters below the fitting point, and the progressive optical power region is the diffractive optical power region The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, beginning between approximately 4 millimeters and approximately 8 millimeters from the top edge of the lens.   The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the lens has a near zone, and the optical power provided by the progressive optical power region decreases after the near zone to provide a lower near-medium zone. A first layer having a first refractive index, wherein the first layer has a first curve and a second curve, the second curve provides a single optical power;
A second layer having a second refractive index different from the first refractive index, the second layer has a first curve and a second curve, and the second curve of the second layer is A lens that provides optical power progression and is in optical communication with the second curvature of the first layer to provide composite optical power for correcting a near field of view.   The lens of claim 18, wherein the single optical power is a spherical optical power.   The lens of claim 18, wherein the second curvature of the second layer is formed on an outer surface of the lens.   The lens of claim 18, wherein the second curvature of the first layer is 4 millimeters below the fitting point of the lens.   19. The lens of claim 18, wherein the optical power discontinuity of the lens is between the first and second curvatures of the first layer. A lens,
A first layer having a first refractive index, the first layer having a far zone and a first optical element, and further having a second refractive index different from the first refractive index. A second layer, the second layer comprising a far zone and a second optical element;
The first optical element comprises a substantially spherical optical power region, wherein the substantially spherical optical power region provides a first portion of the total short-range additional power of the lens;
A discontinuity occurs at the boundary between the first optical element and the far zone of the first layer due to a step increase in optical power between the first optical element and the far zone of the first layer. ,
The first optical element is located 4 millimeters below the fitting point of the lens;
The second optical element comprises a progressive optical power region, the progressive optical power region provides a second portion of the total short-range additional power of the lens;
The first and second optical elements are formed by combining the first part of the total short-distance additional power of the lens and the second part of the total short-distance additional power of the lens. A lens in optical communication that provides additional power.   24. The lens of claim 23, wherein the first and second optical elements are aligned to form a far mid-range zone and a mid-range zone.   The far-medium distance zone has an additional power between approximately 20% and approximately 44% of the total near field additional power of the lens, and the medium distance zone is approximately the total near field additional power of the lens. 25. The lens of claim 24, having an additional power between 45% and approximately 55%.

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